As the National Bank Stadium undergoes redevelopment for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the schedule for the upcoming Test series has been adjusted.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to relocate the second ICC World Test Championship fixture from Karachi to Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
This change addresses issues related to ongoing construction at the Karachi venue.
The decision to move the Test comes in response to concerns that the construction noise and dust could disrupt play and impact players’ health.
As a result, both Tests will now be held in Rawalpindi, allowing fans to experience live action and preview Pakistan’s busy international season, which includes nine Tests, 14 T20Is, and at least 17 ODIs from August 21 to April 5.
The PCB continues to collaborate with architects and construction experts to determine the feasibility of hosting the second Test in Karachi from October 15-19 and will keep the England and Wales Cricket Board updated.
The first Test in Rawalpindi is scheduled to start on August 21, with the second Test beginning on August 30.
Former Pakistan cricketer Kamran Akmal has criticized the PCB for holding the second Test behind closed doors, calling it an embarrassment.
He suggested alternative venues like Faisalabad or Multan, which have quality stadiums and enthusiastic crowds.
Akmal questioned the decision to host the match in Karachi amid ongoing renovations and expressed concerns about the impact on Pakistan’s cricket reputation.