The Pakistan Sri Lanka second Test, scheduled to begin at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on November 17, could be moved to Rawalpindi because of worsening smog in the city.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) officials are concerned about the deteriorating air quality in Lahore and are considering shifting the match to Rawalpindi. Consultations are still at an early stage, and a final decision has yet to be made.
If the proposal is approved, Rawalpindi will host both Tests of the series. The opening Test is currently under way at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, where smog levels are far lower than in Lahore.
Pakistan Sri Lanka second Test: smog forces the PCB to look for an alternative
Air pollution in Lahore has increased over the past few days, prompting PCB officials to consider an alternative plan for the second Test. The city has now spent two straight days at the top of the global pollution ranking.
Punjab has blamed Diwali fireworks drifting from Delhi for the toxic air, with Lahore’s air quality index reaching 263 and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) measured at 37.2 times the World Health Organization’s safe limit. The numbers explain why the board is reluctant to stage five days of Test cricket in the city next week.
Rawalpindi offers a clear contrast. The first Test is already being played there, and the air is far cleaner than in Lahore. Moving the second Test would keep the series in Punjab while avoiding the worst of the smog.
The PCB has faced this kind of call before. Lahore’s winter smog returns every year, and it has disrupted outdoor sport in the city in past seasons. A venue change would be the simplest way to protect players, officials and crowds from five days of hazardous air.
First Test under way in Rawalpindi
The series is already in progress. In the first Test at Rawalpindi, Pakistan declared on 434 for 9 before Sri Lanka reached 114 for 3 at stumps on day two, trailing by 320 runs. Saqib took his maiden Test wicket, and bad light ended play at 4:20pm.
Babar Azam has already passed a milestone in the series, and the home side will want to keep that momentum if the second Test moves to the same ground.
Sri Lanka have been in Pakistan for the past month. They have already played a three-match T20I series and an ODI tri-series. Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka 2-1 in the T20I series, then beat them again in the ODI tri-series final in Lahore. England also took part in the tri-series but failed to reach the final.
The first three matches of the ODI tri-series were played in Rawalpindi, while Lahore hosted the remaining four matches, including the final. That split shows the board already uses both cities to spread fixtures, and a second Test in Rawalpindi would follow the same pattern.
What happens next
The PCB will weigh the air quality readings over the next few days before deciding. If Lahore’s smog eases, the match will stay at Gaddafi Stadium as planned. If it stays hazardous, Rawalpindi will host both Tests. ProPakistani reported the possible move on November 10, and Tribune carried the story the same day.
For Sri Lanka, the change would mean a longer stay in Rawalpindi and no trip to Lahore. For Pakistan, it would mean home advantage on a ground where the team is already settled. The board is expected to confirm the venue once consultations with the teams and the local administration are complete.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s young cricketers are also in action abroad. Pakistan crushed Nepal by 101 runs to reach the Under-19 Asia Cup semi-finals, and the senior team’s schedule will be watched closely by fans who have already seen a full month of home cricket.
Frequently asked questions
Why might the second Test move from Lahore?
Worsening smog in Lahore has PCB officials concerned about air quality. They are considering shifting the match, scheduled for November 17 at Gaddafi Stadium, to Rawalpindi.
Has a final decision been made?
No. Consultations are still at an early stage, and the PCB has not yet confirmed the venue for the second Test.
What is the air quality in Lahore?
Lahore’s air quality index reached 263, with PM2.5 measured at 37.2 times the WHO safe limit. The city has spent two straight days at the top of the global pollution ranking.
Where is the first Test being played?
The first Test is under way at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Pakistan declared on 434 for 9, and Sri Lanka reached 114 for 3 at stumps on day two.
What has Sri Lanka played on this tour so far?
Sri Lanka lost the T20I series 2-1 to Pakistan and then lost the ODI tri-series final to Pakistan in Lahore. England also played in the tri-series but did not reach the final.
