https://arab.news/n22ve
- Pakistan are scheduled to play second Test match against Bangladesh in Karachi from Aug. 30 to Sept. 3
- Pakistan has vowed to upgrade Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi stadiums ahead of Champions Trophy next year
ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced on Wednesday it would hold the second Test match against Bangladesh in Karachi without spectators in attendance, saying it could not risk fans’ safety amid the ongoing construction work at the stadium.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has vowed to upgrade the stadiums in Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi as per international standards before Pakistan hosts the Champions Trophy 2025 cricket tournament in February and March next year.
As per local media reports, construction work at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi began this week.
“In light of ongoing construction work at the National Bank Stadium as part of preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made the difficult decision to hold the second Test match between Pakistan and Bangladesh, scheduled from 30 August to 3 September, without spectators in attendance,” the board said.
The PCB said that it kept the safety and health of Pakistani fans in mind while taking the decision.
“As a result of this decision, ticket sales have been suspended with immediate effect,” the board said. “Fans who have already purchased tickets will receive a full refund automatically, with the amount credited to the account details provided at the time of purchase.”
The board regretted the inconvenience caused to fans but reminded them that the construction work was aimed at “enhancing their experience.”
“The renovations are part of our commitment to making the venue more spectator-friendly and preparing it for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which will be the first ICC event hosted in Pakistan since 1996,” it concluded.