The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced that the second Test match between Pakistan and Bangladesh, originally scheduled to be held in Karachi from August 30 to September 3, has been shifted to Rawalpindi. The decision was made due to ongoing construction work at the National Stadium in Karachi, which is being prepared for the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025.
According to the PCB, the construction experts have advised that while construction could continue during playing hours, the resulting noise pollution would disturb the cricketers. Additionally, the dust from the construction work could affect the health and well-being of the players, officials, broadcasters, and media.
Given that construction must continue uninterrupted to ensure the venue is operationally ready for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the PCB, after consulting all stakeholders and reviewing operational and logistical matters, has decided to hold both Tests in Rawalpindi.
The PCB has also confirmed that fans will be allowed to attend the match in Rawalpindi, unlike in Karachi, where the game was supposed to be played without spectators due to the redevelopment work.
The first Test match between Pakistan and Bangladesh is scheduled to be held in Chittagong from August 15 to 19. The third and final Test match will be played in Rawalpindi from September 8 to 12.
