Cricket Fans Disappointed as PCB Suspends Ticket Sales for First Pakistan-Bangladesh Test
In a move that has left Cricket enthusiasts disappointed, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has suspended ticket sales for the first Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh in Karachi due to ongoing construction work at the National Stadium.
The decision was made to prioritize the health and safety of fans, with the PCB stating that the “safest course of action is to hold the second Test in front of an empty stadium.”
The planned venue upgrade is part of the PCB’s efforts to renovate its facilities ahead of Pakistan’s hosting of the 2025 Champions Trophy.
The Bangladesh squad, who had landed in Lahore earlier than scheduled due to political unrest in their home country, will now train for three days at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore before traveling to Rawalpindi for the first Test, which is set to commence on August 21.
Acknowledging the inconvenience caused to fans, the PCB has assured that the ongoing stadium upgrades are aimed at enhancing the spectator experience. The board’s decision to suspend ticket sales for the Karachi Test comes as the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore is also undergoing a similar upgrade in preparation for Pakistan’s first ICC tournament since the 1996 World Cup.
Despite the disappointment, the PCB remains committed to spreading their seven home Tests, ODIs, and domestic cricket across three venues in Karachi, Multan, and Rawalpindi. The England Test scheduled in Karachi from October 15 is expected to welcome spectators, subject to the completion of the renovations.
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