Pakistan vs Bangladesh Second Test to Be Played Without Fans

The Pakistan Cricket Board has announced that the second Test of Pakistan vs Bangladesh two-match series is going to be played behind closed doors. The Karachi test is scheduled to take place at National Bank Cricket Arena from 30 September to 3 October 2024. This step has been taken as the stadium is undergoing extensive renovations in preparation for ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Here is why Pakistan vs Bangladesh second Test will be played without spectators

This is necessary ongoing construction work to upgrade the stadium up to international standards and get it ready to host Champions Trophy, the first ICC event since 1996 in Pakistan. The PCB has stressed that fans’ health and safety is the first priority for them; therefore, keeping the stands empty for the match is a regrettable yet necessary decision.

Thus, the sale of tickets to the match is suspended with immediate effect, and fans who prepaid for tickets will get a full refund to their respective accounts. The PCB has acknowledged that this decision might disappoint cricket lovers, but asserts that it needs to guarantee a safe environment for one and all.

The broader upgradation of the stadium is part of a massive drive to enhance audience experience and make it more fan-friendly in time for the Champions Trophy. Renovations are being done to make the facility more modern, improved, and safe in its offerings for a better experience of events to be hosted in the future.

The Bangladesh men’s cricket team reached Lahore from Dhaka amidst tight security. The visiting team will rest at a private hotel before they would conduct the practice sessions at Gaddafi Stadium on August 14, 15, and 16 and then shift to Islamabad to play the first Test match in Rawalpindi from August 21-25, 2024.