PAK vs BAN: Second Test match moved from Karachi to Rawalpindi

RAWALPINDI: It has been decided to shift the second Test match of the series between Pakistan and Bangladesh from Karachi to Rawalpindi.

According to media reports, it has been decided to shift the Test match starting from August 30 from Karachi’s National Stadium to Rawalpindi due to the preparations and renovation work for the 2025 Champions Trophy.

Earlier, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had decided to hold the second Test match without spectators, a decision which was heavily criticized by former cricketers.

The board said that due to ongoing construction work at the National Stadium Karachi in preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, fans will not be able to attend the second Test match between Pakistan and Bangladesh, which will be played from August 30 to September 3.

The PCB said that due to construction work at the stadium, they are unable to host the fans, hence the difficult decision. While PCB values ​​its fans, their health and safety are paramount.

Apart from this, efforts are being made to complete the approved architectural design of the National Stadium as soon as possible. A new five-storey building will be constructed at the site, which will also include dressing rooms for the players.

In the second phase, all enclosures will be fitted with modern Teflon roofs. In the third and final phase, the main building will be demolished, and a new one will be constructed.

Additionally, the PCB plans to upgrade three stadiums ahead of the Champions Trophy scheduled from February to March next year. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi is personally supervising the mega projects of Gaddafi Stadium Lahore, National Bank Stadium Karachi and Pindi Stadium in Rawalpindi.

A total of Rs 12.8 billion has been earmarked for this purpose while a budget of $7 million has been approved for hosting the ICC Champions Trophy.

Meanwhile, no decision has been taken regarding changing the venue of the Karachi Test against the visiting England cricket team. The second match of the Test series between Pakistan and England will be played in Karachi from October 15.