RAWALPINDI: The Pakistan Cricket Board in consultation with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has decided to shift the second Test of the forthcoming two-Test series from Karachi to Rawalpindi, the PCB announced on Sunday.

The National Bank Stadium in Karachi was to host the Test against Bangladesh from August 30-September 3, while the opening game is scheduled to be staged at the Pindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi from August 21-25.

According to a PCB press release, the decision to move the fixture has been taken due to the deployment of heavy construction equipment and the need to adhere to tight redevelopment schedules for the National Bank Stadium, which is being prepared currently for next year’s ICC Champions Trophy.

“This decision [to shift the Test to Rawalpindi] allows cricket spectators and fans to watch live action of both the Tests, which serve as a preview of a busy and hectic international season for Pakistan cricket. During this period, the national side will play a total of nine Tests, 14 T20Is, and at least 17 ODIs from Aug 21, 2024 to April 5, 2025,” said the PCB release.

“We have been guided by the construction experts on the timelines for the readiness of the venue [National Bank Stadium]. They advised that while [the] 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.

“Given that [the] 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 [the] Tests [against Bangladesh] in Rawalpindi,” the press release further said.

The National Bank Stadium is scheduled to host the second Test match of a three-game series against England in October this year. The PCB said the fate of the Karachi Test against England would be known in due course.

“At this stage, we will not like to speculate on the hosting of the second Test in Karachi from Oct 15-19, 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 (ECB) updated,” the PCB media release added.

According to the latest announcement made by the PCB, the tickets for both the Tests against Bangladesh are available online at PCB.tcs.com.pk while the ticket booth at Aviation Ground, opposite Rescue 1122, Rawal Road, will become operational on Monday at 11:00am.

Published in Dawn, August 19th, 2024