May 16, 2006	Tuesday	Rabi-us-Sani 17, 1427

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ISLAMABAD, May 15; The head of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Monday said that there was now an element of urgency in upgrading the Rawalpindi Stadium and building a new one in Islamabad as important events were to be hosted.

Shaharyar M. Khan, speaking at the closing of the PCB National Schools Championship (Islamabad) at the Diamond Ground, said that he personally wanted work on the two stadia begin today.

"We have to upgrade the Rawalpindi Stadium which I think is as important as making a new stadium in Islamabad."

Pakistan are to host the 2011 World Cup, the 2008 Champions Trophy and the Asia Cup.

The PCB has now reportedly been given the cricketing control of the Rawalpindi Stadium following months of negotiations with a Rawalpindi administration that was previously reluctant to let go of the venue.

Shaharyar assured the president of Islamabad Cricket Association (ICA) Shakil Shaikh that his association will fully be a part of the new stadium in the capital.

The PCB boss is due to meet the chairman of Capital Development Authority (CDA) Kamran Lashari on Tuesday in connection with the Islamabad Stadium. Officials of ICA are also likely to attend the meeting.