The decision to rename the historic Imran Khan Stadium in Peshawar has sparked a wave of controversy and backlash from political leaders, the public, and the family of the stadium’s original namesake, Arbab Niaz Muhammad. Despite strong opposition, the new nameplate was installed at the site this week, drawing widespread criticism.
Name Change Amid Renovation
 The stadium, originally constructed in 1984, has been undergoing refurbishment for several years. The new name was revealed before the stadium’s reopening, surprising many, including senior figures within the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party.
Interestingly, sources claim that even PTI founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan had opposed the idea of renaming the venue in his honor. His reported disapproval, however, did not stop the move initiated by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government.
Opposition from Arbab Niaz’s Family and Political Leaders
 He called for the preservation of local heritage and recognition of past contributors to sports and society.
A Historic Venue Left in Limbo
The stadium holds significant value as the only international-standard cricket venue in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Despite its stature, it has not hosted an international match in nearly two decades due to ongoing security concerns and delays in development.
The last international match at the ground took place on February 6, 2006, when Pakistan defeated India by 7 runs using the Duckworth-Lewis method. Since then, the stadium has seen only domestic fixtures and training sessions.
Read: Rizwan Reflects on Pakistan’s Struggles After ODI Series Whitewash
PSL Matches Unlikely Despite Renovation
 Officials cite incomplete infrastructure and ongoing security assessments as reasons for its continued exclusion.
Recently, a delegation from the International Cricket Council (ICC) visited the stadium to evaluate facilities and security protocols.
A Symbolic Name or a Political Move?
Critics argue that the renaming of Arbab Niaz Stadium to Imran Khan Stadium is a politically motivated move that disregards local sentiment. With the legacy of Arbab Niaz Muhammad deeply rooted in Peshawar’s sporting history, many believe the change sets a concerning precedent for erasing local heritage for political symbolism.
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