With Pakistan’s test series against Bangladesh scheduled to commence on August 21, PCB has shifted the second test from Karachi to Rawalpindi due to ongoing construction and renovation at the Karachi Stadium.
The Pakistan Cricket Board had earlier informed that Karachi Stadium is currently undergoing construction as it is one of the three venues hosting the Champions Trophy 2025 games.
Hence, the board canceled the ticket bookings for fans and also promised a refund. Concerning the noise pollution caused due to ongoing work, the second test has been rescheduled to Rawalpindi.
“Additionally, the dust from the construction work could also affect the health and well-being of the players, officials, broadcasters, and media,” the PCB said in a statement.
The Champions Trophy 2025 will commence on February 19 and Karachi Stadium is one of the premier venues for the global event. Before the marquee event, the stadium will host a touring England team in one of the three tests in October. On this, PCB iterated that the developments will be closely monitored to ensure the safe conduction of the game.
Last week, the PCB initially declared that the second test, scheduled from August 30 to September 03, would proceed without spectators in Karachi due to the construction efforts to upgrade the stadium ahead of the Champions League 2025 Trophy. However, recent developments prompted a revaluation of the situation.
“At this stage, we will not like to speculate. We will continue to work closely with the architects and construction experts on the safe and secure hosting of the match, while keeping the England and Wales Cricket Board updated,” the PCB concluded.
According to PTI, the construction company responsible for the renovations advised the board earlier last week to shift the match from Karachi. The company cited concerns that the usage of heavy equipment and the noise generated by the construction could disrupt the players’ focus during the game.
It is further said that Pakistan Shaheens and Bangladesh ‘A’ will continue the series in Islamabad. After a drawn first four-day match, the second four-day match will be played on August 20 at the Islamabad Club, followed by three 50-over matches on August 26, 28, and 30 respectively.
Coming to the test series, the Bangladesh test series will begin on August 21 at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
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