Iqbal Stadium will see free entry for National T20 Cup matches [Source: @_FaridKhan/X.com]
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced free entry for fans for eight matches of the upcoming National T20 Cup 2025 at Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad. This move aims to increase stadium attendance and boost the popularity of domestic cricket.
The tournament, featuring 18 teams from 16 regions, will run from March 14 to 27 across three cities, Lahore, Faisalabad, and Multan. Matches scheduled at Iqbal Stadium from March 14 to 20 will be free for spectators, while ticket details for the knockout stages will be announced later.
Can PCB Afford Free Entry For National T20 Cup Matches?
This fan-friendly initiative comes at a time when the PCB is reportedly facing financial challenges. Earlier reports suggested that match fees for players participating in the tournament have been slashed by approximately 90%. However, upon scrutiny, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi was forced to increase players' salaries as per popular reports.
It indicates a potential budget constraint within the cricket board. Offering free entry could be a strategic move to generate goodwill among fans while ensuring packed stadiums for broadcast coverage.
Notably, adding to the financial woes, stars like Babar Azam and Naseem Shah have also pulled out from the tournament as per reports with no clear reasons for the withdrawal yet.
National T20 Cup To Start From March 14
The National T20 Cup 2025 features a robust competition format with 18 teams divided into four groups. Upon completion of the league-stage matches, the top two teams from each group will qualify for the quarter-finals, scheduled for March 23-24 at Iqbal Stadium.
For fans unable to attend matches in person, the tournament will be broadcast on Geo Super in Pakistan and streamed on TapMad. Indian fans can catch the action via FanCode App and Website, though only the Faisalabad leg of matches will be televised.