The 2-match Test series between Pakistan and Bangladesh is scheduled to start on August 21. The second Test between the two teams is to be played at the National Stadium in Karachi. But let us tell you that this match will be played in an empty stadium as renovation work is going on to improve the venue for the 2025 Champions Trophy. This match between Bangladesh and Pakistan is scheduled to start on August 30 and will be part of the World Test Championship (WTC) program.

Notably, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has allocated Rs 17 billion for the renovation of stadiums in Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi. The 2025 Champions Trophy is the first major tournament to be played in Pakistan since the 2008 Asia Cup and the first ICC event since the 1996 ODI World Cup. The PCB issued a statement on Wednesday, August 14, confirming that fans will not be able to watch the match in the stadium due to construction work in the complex.

“In view of the ongoing construction work at the National Stadium as part of preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken the difficult decision to hold the second Test match between Pakistan and Bangladesh, scheduled from 30 August to 3 September, without spectators,” the PCB statement read.The statement further said, “We understand how important a role our passionate audience plays in cricket, providing inspiration and encouragement to our players. However, the health and safety of our fans is our top priority. After carefully considering all available options, we have decided that the safest way is to hold the second Test match in an empty stadium.”

The press release also stated that fans who have already bought tickets for the contest will be refunded their money, while the sale of unsold seats will be suspended immediately.

Bangladesh’s tour of Pakistan will start from August 21

The upcoming red-ball assignment is crucial for Pakistan on multiple fronts. It is a great opportunity for the team to get back into the WTC race on home soil. It is also the first series for newly-appointed red-ball head coach Jason Gillespie, who is said to be a bit like Gautam Gambhir. It will also be the first time Shan Masood will lead his team on home soil after taking over the captaincy from Babar Azam.