The second Test match between Pakistan and Bangladesh, part of the Bangladesh tour of Pakistan 2024, will be held behind closed doors at the National Stadium in Karachi. The match is scheduled to take place from August 30th to September 3rd, 2024, but fans will not be able to attend in person as a safety precaution.
No crowd in the 2nd Test match
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to restrict public access to the stadium in light of the ongoing extensive renovation work at the National Stadium in Karachi. This renovation is a key part of the PCB’s preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which Pakistan is set to host. The work includes a complete overhaul of the stadium’s infrastructure, with a particular focus on upgrading facilities to meet international standards.
One of the significant aspects of the renovation is the replacement of the old scoreboard with a state-of-the-art structure. This new addition will feature modern facilities to accommodate media, commentators, and broadcasters, ensuring a seamless experience during future matches. The PCB is committed to completing the renovations swiftly and safely, necessitating the decision to hold the second Test match without a live audience.
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Upcoming Fixtures
Despite the disappointment of not being able to watch the game in the second Test match in person, cricket fans in Pakistan are eagerly anticipating the two-match Test series. The series kicks off on August 21st, 2024, with the first match set to take place in Rawalpindi. Both Pakistan and Bangladesh are expected to bring their A-game to the series, promising an exciting contest in the longest format of cricket.
While the closed-door match in Karachi is an unfortunate consequence of the necessary upgrades, the PCB assures fans that these efforts are vital to ensure that Pakistan can host international events of the highest caliber, such as the upcoming Champions Trophy. For those unable to attend the match, live broadcasts will ensure that fans do not miss out on the action, even if they can’t be in the stadium.