PCB relocates Pakistan-Sri Lanka Test amid smog

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has shifted the second Test between Pakistan and Sri Lanka from Lahore to Rawalpindi because of worsening smog and deteriorating air quality in the provincial capital.

The match, initially scheduled to take place at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium from November 17 to 21, will now be played at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on the same dates.

PCB spokesperson Amir Mir confirmed the venue change in a statement on social media, saying the decision had been taken in view of the prevailing weather conditions and rising smog levels in Lahore.

The provincial capital has been experiencing severe smog for around 10 days, with its Air Quality Index (AQI) reportedly reaching 600, placing it among the world’s most polluted cities.

Following the relocation, both matches of the two-Test series will be held at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The opening Test is already under way at the same venue.

Pakistan declared their first innings at 434 for nine on the second day of the ongoing match, with Saud Shakeel emerging as the leading scorer with 93 runs.

Sri Lanka were 114 for three in their second innings when play was stopped due to bad light.

Sri Lanka have been touring Pakistan since early October. The visitors lost the three-match T20I series 2-1 before Pakistan also secured the ODI tri-series title, which featured England.

The ongoing Test series is part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle.