The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken a significant step to address the accommodation challenges faced by both local and international cricket players by acquiring a building located near the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
The board has invested Rs4 billion to purchase this multi-storey building, which was originally designed as an apartment complex. The PCB plans to renovate the building and transform it into a hotel to cater to the needs of the cricket teams.
The construction of this building was initiated by a different developer several years ago but was halted due to security concerns raised by the PCB.
Despite having initial bookings from individuals interested in purchasing apartments, legal complications and security issues led the builder to offer the property to the PCB for purchase.
The strategic acquisition of this building is expected to serve multiple purposes for the PCB. It will alleviate the accommodation issues faced by the cricket players by providing them with convenient and comfortable lodging near the Gaddafi Stadium.
This will be particularly beneficial for foreign players who currently stay in a distant 5-star hotel in Lahore. The proximity of the new hotel to the stadium will not only save time but also reduce the disruptions caused by road closures during team movements.
This move is anticipated to reduce the financial burden on the PCB, as the board currently spends a significant amount of money on lodging arrangements in private hotels in Lahore.
By owning and operating its own hotel, the PCB can control costs more effectively and potentially save millions of rupees in the long run.
Thirdly, the establishment of this hotel will contribute positively to the community by minimizing disruptions caused by the movement of teams, which often leads to road closures and traffic congestion.
Although the building has been acquired, the construction is still incomplete, and the PCB will need to allocate a budget for renovations to convert it into a five-star hotel. Despite these challenges, the PCB’s proactive approach to addressing the accommodation needs of cricket players is commendable.
The PCB’s purchase of this building represents a strategic and forward-thinking decision to improve the accommodation facilities for cricket players and to manage costs more efficiently.
With proper renovation and management, the new hotel near the Gaddafi Stadium is expected to enhance the overall experience for both local and international cricket teams and contribute to the development and growth of cricket in Pakistan.
