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Pakistan and Bangladesh are set to lock horns in a two-match Test series with Pakistan hosting the series. It’s a must-win series for both teams if they are to stand a chance to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle. 

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The second and final Test of the series was set to be hosted in Karachi, however, according to the latest press release from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the venue will be shifted to Rawalpindi instead of Karachi.

Why is the venue for Pakistan vs Bangladesh 2nd Test match being shifted? 

The second Test match between Pakistan and Bangladesh which is scheduled to be played between August 30 and September 3 is set to be shifted from the National Stadium at Karachi to Rawalpindi. Initially, the match was scheduled to be played behind closed doors due to construction work going on at the stadium. 

However, according to the latest news, PCB have altogether decided to shift the venue, due to the possible obstructions in the game due to the construction work, also, the shift in venue allows spectators to witness the game live. 

READ MORE: WTC 2025 final: Qualification scenarios, points and wins required

What did PCB say about the shift in venue?

In the latest press release, PCB stated that they were advised to shift the venue since the noise from the ongoing construction work could disturb the cricketers along with the dust that could affect visibility to a great extent. 

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.

The PCB further stated that they can’t afford any delay in construction since the stadium needs to be completely up to the mark since it would be one of the venues that would be hosting the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025. 

India’s participation in the returning edition of the tournament remains a mystery as the BCCI continue to be reluctant to send the team for the tournament. 

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Author(s)
Rahul Chalke Photo

Rahul is a content producer for The Sporting News’ India edition.