RAWALPINDI: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), in coordination with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), has announced that the second Test of the upcoming two-Test series will be relocated from Karachi to Rawalpindi. The change was confirmed by the PCB on Sunday.
Originally, the second Test was set to take place at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi from August 30 to September 3, with the first Test scheduled to be held at Pindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi from August 21 to 25.
The PCB explained in a press release that the decision to move the match stems from ongoing heavy construction at the National Bank Stadium, which is undergoing redevelopment in preparation for next year’s ICC Champions Trophy.
“The shift to Rawalpindi ensures that cricket fans can enjoy both Test matches live, serving as a precursor to a busy international season for Pakistan,” the release stated. The national team is slated to play nine Tests, 14 T20Is, and at least 17 ODIs from August 21, 2024, to April 5, 2025.
Construction experts advised that ongoing work could create noise pollution and dust, which would disrupt players and impact the health of players, officials, and media. Given the need for uninterrupted construction to prepare the stadium for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the PCB, after consulting with all stakeholders, decided to relocate both Tests to Rawalpindi.
The National Bank Stadium is also scheduled to host the second Test of a three-match series against England in October. The PCB stated that details regarding the Karachi Test against England would be confirmed in due course.
“We are not ready to speculate about the October 15-19 Test against England in Karachi at this time. We will continue working with architects and construction experts to ensure the safe hosting of the match and will keep the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) informed,” the PCB release added.
Tickets for both Tests against Bangladesh are now available online at PCB.tcs.com.pk. A ticket booth at Aviation Ground, opposite Rescue 1122, Rawal Road, will open on Monday at 11:00 am.
