Rawalpindi to host Pakistan vs Bangladesh 2nd Test

Rawalpindi will host the second Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh to be held from Friday, August 30. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), in consultation with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), took the decision keeping in mind the construction at the National Stadium going on for the Champions Trophy to be staged next year.

Earlier, it was learned that Karachi would host the Test in front of no spectators. Rawalpindi is also the host for the opening Test, scheduled to start on Wednesday, August 21. The PCB said that players will be distracted on the field due to noise if they play at a time when construction is going on.

“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 wellbeing of the players, officials, broadcasters, and media,” PCB



said in a statement.

“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.”

Later this year, Karachi is also set to host the second Test between England and Pakistan from October 15 onwards. However, the PCB refused to share an update, saying that it is constantly in touch with the England and Wales Cricket Board (PCB).

“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 statement added.

From August 2023, to April next year, Pakistan are scheduled to play nine Tests, 14 T20Is and at least 17 ODIs.