The PAK vs BAN 1st Test is yet to start despite being scheduled to commence at 10 AM local time. The reason? Wet outfield owing to heavy rain on the night before the match. The outfield at Rawalpindi was subjected to three pitch inspections and delays before the toss took place at 2:00 PM local time.
Pathetic drainage system in Rawalpindi casts aspersions on Pakistan hosting CT 2025
Despite the sun shing bright and the absence of rain, the outfield at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium remained wet owing to a pathetic drainage system. Such is the poor state of affairs in the stadiums across Pakistan that Shan Masood and co were spotted with buckets and sponges in their hands attempting to dry the ground due to lack of ground staff.
Earlier, the umpires too objected to starting the game early after not being satisfied with certain parts of the ground. The sad state of affairs cast aspersions on Pakistan’s ability to host the Champions Trophy (CT 2025) in February 2025.
Latest cricket news
PCB chairman slams standards of stadiums in Pakistan
Just recently, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi had called out the poor infrastructure at stadiums across the country, slamming the lack of basic facilities including proper seats and toilets. He said that none of the stadiums in the country met the international standards. Naqvi’s comments came after he paid a visit to the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
With less than six months left to go for CT 2025, Pakistan is racing against time to get the venues in shape and ready for the marquee event. Despite criticising the state of the stadiums, PCB chief Naqvi is confident of the renovation work being completed before the start of Champions Trophy.
