Also or formerly known as Lyallpur Stadium; National Stadium; City Stadium
Floodlights Yes - 2006
End names Pavilion End, Golf Course End
Home team(s) Faisalabad
Pitch type grass
Current local time 10:51, Fri Sep 05, 2008 (UTC +0500)
External links Weather
The Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad is situated in the northern province of Punjab and is a modern and well-equipped stadium. But no matter how impressive a venue is, not much can be done about the weather and Faisalabad has suffered at the hands of the elements. In 1998-99 fog caused the third Test against Zimbabwe was abandoned without a ball being bowled, while bad light is often an issue especially for matches played during the winter. However, when play has been possible, some memorable performances have taken place. An exciting Test was played out in 1997-98 when South Africa skittled Pakistan for 92, successfully defending a target of 142 on the final day. Then, in 2004-05, Sanath Jayasuriya smashed 253 as Sri Lanka powered to a 201-run victory. But the ground is most famous for the confrontation between Mike Gatting and Shakoor Rana during England's 1987-88 tour, which led to a day being lost during the match and some long-lasting bad feeling between the teams. The stadium itself is only 2km out of the city centre, which can be reached by a walk through the tree-lined suburbs. Andrew McGlashan
