PCB announces Rawalpindi as venues for both Tests against Bangladesh
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to stage both Tests against Bangladesh at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, owing to the venue in Karachi undergoing construction work to get it ready for 2025 Champions Trophy. According to the original schedule, Karachi was to host the second Test between the two sides from August 30 to September 3.
The board had earlier announced that the Karachi Test will take place behind closed doors, thanks to redevelopment work. Nevertheless, fans will now be able to attend the Test, with Rawalpindi set to stage the fixture.
A press release from the PCB stated that construction experts have advised against holding the fixture due to noise pollution and dust.
"We have been guided by the construction experts on the timelines for the readiness of the [National Stadium in Karachi]. 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 wellbeing of the players, officials, broadcasters, and media."
It further added:
"Given that construction must continue uninterrupted to ensure the venue is operationally ready for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the PCB, after consulting all stakeholders and reviewing operational and logistical matters, has decided to hold both Tests in Rawalpindi."
Pakistan have a bumper home season in 2023-24, hosting Tests against Bangladesh, England and West Indies. Aside from 2025 Champions Trophy, the men's team will also play a tri-series against South Africa and New Zealand.
PCB to keep ECB updated about their fixtures
With England also set to play one of the three Tests in Karachi in October, PCB said that they will keep the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) updated about the situation. The press release further read:
"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."
The Englishmen won 3-0 against Pakistan on home soil in 2022 and will be keen to replicate that feat.