PCB Relocates Pakistan vs Bangladesh 2nd Test to Rawalpindi Due to Renovation Concerns in Karachi
PCB Moves Pakistan vs Bangladesh 2nd Test to Rawalpindi Due to Player Health Concerns in Karachi The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that the second Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh will be moved from Karachi to Rawalpindi. The decision, announced on Sunday, follows ongoing renovation work at the National Stadium in Karachi. This change was made in consultation with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), both agreeing that the relocation was necessary under the current circumstances.
The first Test will proceed as scheduled in Rawalpindi, beginning August 21.
Initially, the PCB had planned to hold the second Test from August 30 to September 3 in Karachi without spectators due to stadium upgrades for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. However, recent developments led to a reassessment of this plan.
The construction company overseeing the renovations advised the PCB to relocate the match, citing concerns that the heavy machinery and noise from the ongoing work could disrupt the players’ performance. “The construction experts indicated that while work could continue during the match, the noise and dust could negatively impact the players, officials, broadcasters, and media,” the PCB stated.
The construction firm also stressed the importance of adhering to a strict timeline to ensure the stadium’s readiness for the ICC Champions Trophy, set to start in February 2025.
The shift has raised concerns about the second Test between Pakistan and England, scheduled for Karachi from October 15 to 19. The PCB is currently evaluating the situation and has refrained from speculating on any potential changes to this fixture.
