Pakistan vs Bangladesh Karachi Test moved to Rawalpindi

The Pakistan vs Bangladesh second Test has been moved from Karachi to Rawalpindi due to ongoing construction at the National Stadium in Karachi.

It means both the Pakistan vs Bangladesh Test matches will be played in Rawalpindi. This Test series will be a part of the 2023-2025 ICC World Test Championship.

Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium is ready to host the first Test of the two-match Pakistan vs Bangladesh Test series, starting on August 21st.  

The second Test will start on August 30th. Initially, it was decided that the National Stadium in Karachi would host the second Test without any spectators due to ongoing redevelopment work. 

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However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has now decided to organise both Pakistan vs Bangladesh Test matches at Rawalpindi. 

The resulting noise pollution would disturb the cricketers: PCB

Karachi’s National Stadium is under redevelopment work for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which will be played between mid-February and early March 2025. To complete the work on time, the PCB has decided to shift the second Test venue. 

PCB said in a press release on Sunday, "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.

"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."

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PCB on Pakistan vs England Karachi Test  

In October, England will tour Pakistan for a three-match Test series. After Multan hosts the first Test between October 7 and 11, the National Stadium in Karachi will host the second Test, starting on October 15. 

In the latest press release, the PCB also highlighted the Pakistan vs England second Test venue. The board wants to take time before making any final decision. 

PCB added, "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 third Pakistan vs England Test match will be played in Rawalpindi, starting on October 24. The three-match Test series between Pakistan and England will be part of the 2023-2025 ICC World Test Championship. 

The two upcoming home Test series will be very crucial for Pakistan to settle for the top two places in the 2023-2025 ICC World Test Championship points table. 

At present, Pakistan are in sixth place in the 2023-2025 ICC World Test Championship points table with 22 points in five Tests (percentage of points won: 36.66).