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LAHORE - Pakistan has intensified preparations for the 2027 South Asian Games as a delegation of the South Asia Olympic Council (SAOC) inspected major sports venues in Islamabad to assess their readiness and facilities for the regional multi-sport event. The delegation visited the Pakistan Sports Complex, where Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) Director General Yawar Hussain, Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) President Arif Saeed and Secretary General Khalid Mehmood briefed officials on infrastructure development, technical facilities and other Games-related arrangements. The SAOC team inspected several major venues, including Jinnah Stadium, Amir Khan Hall, Hamidi Hall, Rodham Hall, Liaquat Gymnasium, the Shooting Range and Rawal Lake. Officials outlined measures being taken to ensure modern facilities and professional arrangements for athletes and officials from across South Asia. The delegation also visited the Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) Tennis Complex, a proposed venue for the tennis competition. PTF Secretary General Colonel Zia-ud-Din Tufail briefed the visitors on the complex’s infrastructure, player facilities and ongoing improvements, while highlighting Pakistan’s experience in hosting international and regional tennis events. The inspection followed the SAOC Executive Committee meeting in Islamabad a day earlier, where Pakistan’s preparations and schedule for the 14th South Asian Games were reviewed.Pakistan will host the Games from April 3 to 11, 2027, with competitions spread across Islamabad, Lahore and Peshawar. Islamabad will stage 15 sports, Lahore 10 and Peshawar three. The venue inspections are part of Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to ensure the Games are staged to international standards and provide a successful sporting experience for participating nations.