Pakistan vs Bangladesh second Test to be held without spectators
What's the story
Ahead of the Pakistan versus Bangladesh Test series, the Pakistan Cricket Board has announced that the second match to be held in Karachi will be played without spectators. The National Stadium in Karachi will host the match from August 30 to September 3. This decision was made due to ongoing construction work at the venue, as part of preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy in early 2025. Here are further details.
Ticket refunds
PCB suspends ticket sales, promises full refunds
The PCB has immediately halted ticket sales for the match. Fans who have already purchased tickets are assured of a full refund. The board stated, "Fans who have already bought tickets will receive a full refund automatically, with the amount credited to the account details provided at the time of purchase." This move is part of PCB's commitment to prioritize fan safety during stadium renovations.
Safety priority
PCB's commitment to fan safety and stadium upgrades
The PCB acknowledged the significant role that enthusiastic fans play in cricket, inspiring and motivating players. However, they emphasized that "the health and safety of our fans is our utmost priority." The board added, "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."
Stadium upgrades
PCB's renovation plans for Champions Trophy
The PCB expressed regret for any inconvenience caused by this decision but assured fans that the ongoing stadium upgrades are intended to enhance their experience. The renovations are part of PCB's commitment to making the venue more spectator-friendly and preparing it for the Champions Trophy. The first Test match against Bangladesh will be held in Rawalpindi from August 21, ahead of the second Test in Karachi.
PAK
Naseem Shah was included in Pakistan Test squad
Pakistan fast bowler Naseem Shah was included in a 17-man squad for the two-Test series against Bangladesh. The 21-year-old played the last of his 17 Tests 13 months ago, in Sri Lanka. Pakistan squad: Shan Masood (c), Saud Shakeel (vc), Aamer Jamal (subject to Fitness), Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Khurram Shahzad, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Sarfaraz Ahmed (wk), Shaheen Afridi.
Bangladesh
Taskin returned to Bangladesh Test squad for Pakistan series
The Bangladesh Cricket Board had included Taskin Ahmed in the 15-player squad. Taskin, who had last played a Test in June 2023, had taken a break from red-ball cricket to prioritize his recovery following his shoulder injury. Bangladesh squad: Najmul Hossain Shanto (C), Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Zakir Hasan, Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib Al Hasan, Litton Kumer Das, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Nahid Rana, Shoriful Islam, Hasan Mahmud, Taskin Ahmed, Syed Khaled Ahmed.