LAHORE, Nov 21 The Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday celebrated 50 years as the home of Pakistan cricket despite questions remaining over its viability to host international action stalled over security fears.

Fifty years ago on Saturday the ground hosted its first Test between Pakistan and Australia and it has since been the headquarters of Pakistan cricket, housing the offices of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

But on March 3 this year the stadium — named after Libyan President Muammar Gaddafi in 1974 — became focus of the world when the Sri Lankan team were attacked by militants on their way for third day's play in the second Test.

The ambush, which left seven Sri Lankan players and their assistant coach injured besides killing eight people, put on hold any international cricket in Pakistan.

For Gaddafi Stadium groundsman Haji Bashir the half-century is significant despite the fact that the stadium is deprived of international cricket.

“Celebrating 50 years of the Gaddafi Stadium is special for Pakistan cricket and for me,” said Bashir, who came here as assistant groundsman for the first Test in 1959, when it was known as Lahore Stadium.

During his 50 years Bashir's highlights include numerous Tests, one-day matches and Twenty20 Internationals - but he also remembers the dark moments.

“The attacks were horrifying and deprived us of cricket but I am sure this historic ground and our beloved country will host international matches very soon,” said the 68-year-old.

The first Test at the Stadium wasn't particularly auspicious for the home team. It saw Australian legend Richie Benaud leading his team to a seven-wicket victory and a 2-0 unassailable lead in the three-match series.

But Bashir feels the stadium has been afforded its fair share of moments to treasure.

“The most memorable match here was the Indo-Pak match in 1978 when our team beat India in a sensational finish,” said Bashir of Pakistan's first-ever win over their arch rivals at home after the ties were revived following a 17-year break.

Pakistan's most prolific batsman Javed Miandad made his debut here in 1976.

Another great batsman, Inzamam-ul-Haq, scored a triple hundred against New Zealand in 2002 and paceman Wasim Akram achieved country's first-ever Test hat-trick here in 1999.

The stadium also hosted the World Cup final between Sri Lanka and Australia in 1996.

“The Gaddafi Stadium is truly the home of Pakistan cricket,” said PCB's chief operating officer Wasim Bari. “It is one of the most beautiful grounds in Asia and we are trying our level best to bring international cricket back to our stadiums.”—AFP