The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced 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, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Wednesday.
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.
“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 making the decision.
As per local media reports, construction work at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi began this week.
The PCB acknowledged the importance of spectators in cricket, noting, “We understand the vital role that our passionate spectators play in cricket, providing inspiration and motivation to our players.” Despite the unusual circumstances, the board emphasized that the construction work is crucial for hosting future international events.
“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.