Cricket is the national pastime of Pakistan and the remote desert region of Thar is no exception.

People in Thar love cricket and the country’s cricket stars and the youngsters there are keen to play and enjoy the sport. Unfortunately， there aren’t enough facilities for them. Realising this, Thar Block 1 Integrated Energy Project decided to play its role in line with its long-term campaign for community development. The Marvi Stadium which was constructed in Thar almost 15 years ago was identified. The stadium was in a neglected shape so Thar Block 1 Integrated Energy Project renovated it at a cost of US$200,000 over a period of three months. The newly-renovated stadium was opened to the public and an exhibition match was played at the venue between cricket teams from Islamkot and Thar Block 1 Integrated Energy Project as part of the Independence Day celebrations. Hundreds of local fans turned up for the cricket match and festivities which was attended by a number of dignitaries. Top government officials, SSRL and TCB-1 management led by Chairman Mr Meng Donghai were present at the inauguration.

“It is a great occasion to be here for this inauguration ceremony and cricket match which is an important part of our ongoing CSR activities,” commented Mr. Donghai. “We are aware that cricket is by far the most popular sport in Pakistan and wanted to give youngsters of this area an opportunity to hone their skills in it. We hope that this stadium will enable them to take up and enjoy cricket on a long-term basis,” he added.

Mr Donhgai pointed out that the Thar Block 1 Integrated Energy Project has provided more than 18,000 direct employment opportunities for the locals, with a cumulative tax payment of US$120 million and CSR expenditure of over US$1.3 million.

Mr Kamlesh Kumar, Chairman, Town Committee, Taluka Islamkot, hailed Thar Block 1 Integrated Energy Project for the great service towards the people of the area. “It’s a great step. Our stadium can now become the best in the area. It’s a great development and a big service towards the people of our area, especially youngsters. I really appreciate Thar Block 1 Integrated Energy Project for renovating our stadium,” he said.

Aijaz Ali Lanjo, captain of Islamkot Tigers cricket team, said that the stadium will help promote cricket in the area. “By renovating the Marvi Stadium which also has lights so that we can play night cricket, Thar Block 1 Integrated Energy Project has really given a boost to cricket in the area. Previously we had no teams and today we have 15 to 20 and that’s just because we now have a lovely stadium where we can play,” he said. “Now our stadium will be the best in Islamkot, ” added Aijaz who captained Islamkot Tigers against SSRL team in the exhibition match played on August 12.

Mr. Meng Donghai, Chairman of Thar Block 1 Integrated Energy Project inaugurates the newly renovated Marvi Stadium in Islamkot