Pakistan to play Karachi Test against Bangladesh without spectators

The second Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh in Karachi from August 30 to September 3 will be played without the presence of spectators because of ongoing construction work at the National Stadium

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.

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.