The second Test match between Pakistan and Bangladesh, scheduled to be held from August 30 to September 3, which was set to be played behind closed doors at the National Stadium in Karachi, has now been shifted to Rawalpindi.
Earlier, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had taken the decision to play the second Test without any crowds due to major renovation work that is being conducted at the Karachi stadium in preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
The ongoing construction activity had prompted the board to restrict public access to ensure safety and facilitate uninterrupted work.
However, PCB has now reversed their decision to play the match without fans and instead they have shifted the match to Rawalpindi stadium.
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Why did the PCB shift the Pakistan vs Bangladesh 2nd Test to Rawalpindi?
With PCB's decision to shift the match away from Karachi, it has now been confirmed that both the first and second Test match of the Pakistan series against Bangladesh, will be played at Rawalpindi.
"We have been guided by the construction experts on the timelines for the readiness of the [National Stadium in Karachi]. They 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 also affect the health and wellbeing of the players, officials, broadcasters, and media," the PCB said in a statement.
"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 statement further added.
The first Test match of the series is set to start on Wednesday, August 21, 2024.
While the Multan Cricket Ground was also an alternative venue for the second Test match, PCB against shifting the Test to Multan, as the ground is set to host the first match of the Test series against England, in October.
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