From Behind Closed Doors to Venue Change – Pakistan vs Bangladesh 2nd Test to be Played in Rawalpindi

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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Sunday (August 18) announced it's decision to shift the second Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh from Karachi to Rawalpindi due to the ongoing construction work in Karachi National Stadium for next year's ICC Champions Trophy.

According to the initial schedule of the series, the first Test was scheduled in Rawalpindi on August 21, and the second Test was to be played in Karachi between August 30 and September 3.

PCB had earlier with regret barred the spectators from the second Test in Karachi due to the ongoing renovations in the National Stadium for next year's Champions Trophy, which will be held in Pakistan.

However, the construction experts have advised PCB that the renovation work could continue during the playing hours, leading to players getting disturbed due to the noise and dust produced during the construction work.

Hence, PCB has decided to move the Pakistan vs Bangladesh 2nd Test to Rawalpini, where Pindi Cricket Stadium, which also hosts the first Test, will play host to the final match of the tour.

"The PCB, in consultation with the Bangladesh Cricket Board, has decided to move the second Test to Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium," PCB said in a statement on Sunday (August 18).

"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. The PCB, after consulting all stakeholders and reviewing operational and logistical matters, has decided to hold both Tests in Rawalpindi," the statement added.

Karachi is also set to host the second Test between Pakistan and England from October 15 to 19. But PCB did not want to speculate on the match which is nearly two months away.

"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," PCB statement further read.

Now as far as the Bangladesh tour of Pakistan, the two Tests will be held in Rawalpindi. The first Test is scheduled to be held from August 21 to 25, while the second and final Test which will be part of ICC Test Championship, will be held from August 30 to September 3.