Karachi: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced that the upcoming second Test match between Pakistan and Bangladesh, scheduled from 30 August to 3 September 2024, will be conducted without spectator attendance due to ongoing renovations at the National Bank Stadium.

According to Pakistan Cricket Board, the decision comes as the stadium undergoes significant upgrades in preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, marking the first ICC event hosted in Pakistan since 1996. The PCB emphasized the importance of fan safety and health as the primary reasons for this precautionary measure, stating that the ongoing construction work presents challenges that necessitate holding the match in an empty stadium.

Ticket sales for the event have been halted immediately, and fans who have already purchased tickets will receive a full refund, with the reimbursement automatically credited to the account details provided at the time of purchase.

The PCB expressed regret over the inconvenience caused to fans and reiterated its commitment to enhancing the spectator experience through the current stadium upgrades.