The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Sunday announced to move the second of the two-match Test series between Pakistan and Bangladesh from Karachi to Rawalpindi.
The cricket board took this decision owing to the ongoing construction work in the National Bank Stadium in Karachi to prepare for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025.
“Due to the deployment of heavy construction equipment and the need to adhere to tight redevelopment schedules for the National Bank Stadium, which is being prepared for next year’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the Pakistan Cricket Board, in consultation with the Bangladesh Cricket Board, has decided to move the second ICC World Test Championship fixture to Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium,” the PCB stated in a press release.
“This decision allows cricket spectators and fans to watch the live action of both the Tests, which serve as a preview of a busy and hectic international season for Pakistan cricket. During this period, the national side will play a total of nine Tests, 14 T20Is, and at least 17 ODIs from 21 August to 5 April.
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“We have been guided by the construction experts on the timelines for the readiness of the venue. 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 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.
“At this stage, we will not like to speculate on the hosting of the second Test in Karachi from 15-19 October and 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 Test series will commence in Rawalpindi, with the first Test scheduled to begin on 21 August. Meanwhile, the second Test match is scheduled to be played from 30 August to 3 September.
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