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Pakistan
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has moved the second Test against Bangladesh from Karachi to Rawalpindi, the venue of first Test as well. The decision comes days after announcing that there would be no spectators during the Karachi Test.
The steps have been taken as National Stadium in Karachi is undergoing construction and renovation for the upcoming Champions Trophy. Pakistan are scheduled to host their first ICC tournament in February-March next year since co-hosting 1996 ODI World Cup.
"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," read a statement from the PCB.
"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," it further added.
Bangladesh are in Pakistan for a two-Test series, with the first Test scheduled to be played from August 21 in Rawalpindi.
Pakistan are expected to play seven home Tests in the coming month and are looking to equally share the hosting between three venues: Rawalpindi, Karachi and Multan.
Multan would have been a viable option to shift the second Test against Bangladesh but it is already slated to host the first Test against England in October.
The Karachi Test against England, scheduled to be played from October 15, is so far expected to have spectators present.
As for Bangladesh, they are touring Pakistan for the first time since 2020, when Covid-19 pandemic cut short their trip.