The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been making significant strides in world cricket. Last year, India’s high-profile Indian Premier League (IPL) auction was held in the port city of Jeddah. Cricket has been growing in popularity, and several leading companies in Saudi Arabia have been prominent sponsors of the IPL. Domestic cricket is played there from October to April, and the Saudi team has already participated in tournaments organised by the Asian Cricket Council and the International Cricket Council.
The Saudi Foundation Day Cup 2025, which commenced on February 14 (Friday) and will conclude on February 22, is being held at the Tamimi Cricket Ground in Dammam.
This event is expected to majorly boost Saudi Arabia’s domestic cricket scene. The tournament is being organised in partnership with Axis United Trading Co. (AUTCO), the exclusive distributor of FIREOX, and Pacific Star Sports (PSS), a subsidiary of Toyam Sports Limited (TSL).
The Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation believes that cricket has become a unifying force in the country, particularly among its dynamic and diverse expatriate population. Notably, it is not only expatriates from the Indian subcontinent who play cricket in Saudi Arabia but also those from England, New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa.
Cricket was first played in Saudi Arabia in 1960 between parish teams. However, it was only in 2001 that legal status was granted to organise the game under the royal patronage of Princess Ghada bint Homoud bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud.
Commenting on the Saudi Foundation Day Cup 2025, Tariq Zaid Sagga, CEO of the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation, said: “Cricket is cherished across Saudi Arabia, especially among our vibrant expatriate community, where it is followed with immense enthusiasm and love.
“The Saudi Foundation Day Cup 2025 is more than just a series of matches—it’s an opportunity to bring communities together, create unforgettable moments, and showcase Saudi Arabia’s potential as a global cricketing destination.
“With thousands of fans expected to attend over nine days, along with an expansive online audience via the sports OTT platform FanCode and other digital channels, this event is set to become a historic milestone in the Kingdom’s cricketing journey.”
Eight top teams are competing for the title across 19 matches spread over nine days. The organisers hope this tournament will set a new benchmark for sporting excellence in the region.
Over the years, nearly 60 cricket grounds have been developed in Saudi Arabia, with the Tamimi Cricket Ground in Dammam being one of the best. This tournament is also expected to elevate enthusiasm for the game in Dammam.
Pacific Star Sports, which has been promoting cricket and various other sports in the UAE for many decades, is backing this tournament. Mahmood Merchant, managing director of Pacific Star Sports, based in Dubai, is in Dammam to ensure the event meets the highest standards.
Commenting on the tournament, Merchant said: “The Saudi Foundation Day Cup 2025 is a historic step forward for the Kingdom, showcasing its growing stature in the global cricketing landscape.”
Merchant, who has close ties with international cricketers like Mahendra Singh Dhoni, understands the impact cricket can have on society. He noted: “Cricket is a universal passion that bridges cultures and communities. We are excited to invite sponsors and partners, both local and international, to join this transformative journey.
“This is an unparalleled opportunity to align with a high-profile event that celebrates the Kingdom’s passion for cricket while fostering lasting connections with a rapidly growing audience. Together, we can create a legacy that will inspire generations and establish Saudi Arabia as a beacon of cricketing excellence.”
