Lahore, 15 August 2024 (TDI): Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has barred spectators’ entry for the second Test match between Pakistan and Bangladesh at the National Bank Stadium, Karachi.
In a statement late on Thursday, the cricket board said the move was due to the ongoing construction work at the stadium as part of preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The second and final Test match of the two-match series is scheduled for August 30 to September 3.
“In light of ongoing construction work at the National Bank Stadium as part of preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the Pakistan Cricket Board has made the difficult decision to hold the second Test match between Pakistan and Bangladesh,” the cricket board said in a statement issued late on Thursday.
Read more: Pakistan Squad for Bangladesh Test Series Announced
The PCB said it was fully aware of the passion Pakistan nation has towards cricket. However, it said, the ongoing construction could affect the health and safety of the spectators.
“After careful consideration of all available options, we have decided that the safest course of action is to hold the second Test in front of an empty stadium,” it added.
The board has also suspended all ticket sales for the Karachi Test. Further, fans who have already bought their tickets will receive a refund.
Read more: Pakistan Squad for Bangladesh Test Series Announced
ICC Champions Trophy 2025
Pakistan is preparing to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This would be the first time in 29 years that the South Asian cricket nation would host an ICC event. Pakistan co-hosted the 1996 World Cup with India and Sri Lanka.
The Bangladesh cricket team arrived in Lahore for a two-match Test series on August 13. They are currently practising at the Gaddafi Stadium. They will travel to Islamabad on August 17 to play the first Test match at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium from August 21 to August 25.
