Pakistan to face Bangladesh in Karachi Test behind closed doors

Due to ongoing construction work at the National Stadium in Karachi, the second Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh scheduled from August 30 to September 3 will be played behind closed doors without any spectators in attendance.

The development is part of an upgrade as the PCB renovates its venues ahead of the 2025 Champions Trophy in February-March. The Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore is also undergoing a similar upgrade ahead of Pakistan's first ICC tournament since 1996, when they co-hosted the 1996 World Cup with India and Sri Lanka.

ESPNcricinfo understands a decision was taken to keep the Test in Karachi because the PCB was keen on spreading their seven home Tests, ODIs and domestic cricket across three venues in Karachi, Multan and Rawalpindi. Multan, which was the only other option, is slated to host Pakistan's first Test against England from October 7.

There is no change in plans for the England Test scheduled in Karachi from October 15, with spectators expected to be in attendance.

Related

Naseem back in Test squad, Shakeel named vice-captain for Bangladesh series

Mushfiqur, Taskin back in Bangladesh Test squad for Pakistan series

Masood, Gillespie want more Test cricket for Pakistan

Calling it a "difficult decision", the PCB has suspended ticket sales for the first Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh in Karachi with immediate effect.

"The health and safety of our fans is our utmost priority," the board said in a statement. "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.

"While we deeply regret any inconvenience this may cause, we want to assure our valued fans that the ongoing stadium upgrades are aimed at enhancing their experience."

The Bangladesh squad landed in Lahore four days earlier than planned to begin training after the players' preparation had been disrupted due to the ongoing political unrest in Bangladesh. The team will train for three days at Gaddafi Stadium before travelling to Rawalpindi for the first Test that begins on August 21.

The departure ahead of schedule was possible after an invitation from the PCB to the BCB to ensure the Bangladesh players had "adequate and fair training opportunities" ahead of the Tests.

Bangladesh previous bilateral tour of Pakistan was in 2020, but that trip was cut short because of the Covid-19 pandemic.