Pakistan, Bangladesh to play Karachi Test behind closed doors

Test cricket might be returning to Pakistan for the first time in 20 months, but fans in Karachi will have to wait slightly longer to catch their home side live in action as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed that the second Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh in Karachi, beginning August 30, will be played behind closed doors.

The PCB announced that they have taken the ‘tough decision’ to host the match without spectators due to the ongoing construction work at the National Bank Stadium as part of preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

“We understand the vital role that our passionate spectators play in cricket, providing inspiration and motivation to our players. However, the health and safety of our fans is our utmost priority. After careful consideration of all available options, we have decided that the safest course of action is to hold the second Test in front of an empty stadium,” the PCB said in a statement.

The board confirmed in the same release that ticket sales have been frozen with immediate effect. The fans who have already purchased tickets will be refunded fully.

“As a result of this decision, ticket sales have been suspended with immediate effect. 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 PCB revealed.

The Pakistan board added that the renovations will make the National Stadium in Karachi more ‘spectator-friendly’.

“While we deeply regret any inconvenience this may cause, we want to assure our valued fans that the ongoing stadium upgrades are 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.”

The forthcoming Test series against Bangladesh, starting August 21 in Rawalpindi, will be Pakistan’s first red-ball assignment since the three-match Test series against Australia towards the end of last year. 

The Men in Green currently stand fifth in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings, having won two and lost three matches. Bangladesh, meanwhile, are placed eighth, having won just one of the four matches.

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