The PCB has relocated the second Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh from Karachi to Rawalpindi because of ongoing construction at the National Stadium in preparation for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. The match, originally planned to be played without spectators due to redevelopment work, will now welcome fans at the new venue in Rawalpindi.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) issued a statement explaining that construction noise and dust could disrupt the game and potentially affect the health of players, officials, and media personnel. To ensure the National Stadium is ready for the Champions Trophy, the PCB opted to shift both Test matches to Rawalpindi.
Karachi still plans to host England in a Test match in October, but the PCB has not confirmed the fixture yet, as it waits for further consultations with construction experts.
Pakistan’s home season features a packed schedule, including seven Tests and an ODI tri-series with New Zealand and South Africa. However, the Champions Trophy is the marquee event, marking the first ICC tournament in Pakistan since the 1996 ODI World Cup. Consequently, the PCB has focused on upgrading its stadiums.
While the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore is undergoing renovations, Rawalpindi, Karachi, and Multan remain the primary venues. The first Test against Bangladesh begins on August 21 in Rawalpindi, with the second match set to follow on August 30 at the same venue.
Leave a Reply