Given that National Bank Stadium in Karachi is now undergoing built in anticipation of the Champions Trophy in 2025, the cricket board made this decision.
The PCB announced in a press release that it had decided to move the second ICC World Test Championship match to Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium due to the deployment of heavy construction equipment and the necessity to follow strict redevelopment schedules for the National Bank Stadium, which is being prepared for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 next year. It had also consulted with the Bangladesh Cricket Board.
Because of this decision, cricket fans and viewers may now watch both Test matches live, which provides a sneak peek at Pakistan’s next demanding international season. The national team will play at least 17 ODIs, 14 T20Is, and nine Tests between August 21 and April 5, inclusive, during this time.
The timelines for the venue’s preparedness have been provided by the specialists in construction. They said the cricketers would be disturbed by the noise pollution caused by the building, even if it was still possible to proceed during play.
“Moreover, the players, officials, broadcasters, and media may experience negative health effects from the dust from the building site.
“The PCB, after speaking with all stakeholders and examining operational and logistical considerations, has opted to conduct both Tests in Rawalpindi, given that construction must continue uninterrupted to ensure the venue is operationally ready for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
We will continue to collaborate closely with architects and construction specialists to ensure a safe and secure hosting of the match, keeping the England and Wales Cricket Board informed. At this time, we would prefer not to speculate about the hosting of the second Test in Karachi from October 15–19.
The first test of the series is set to take place on August 21 in Rawalpindi. From August 30 to September 3, however, is when the second Test match is supposed to take place.
