Pakistan vs New Zealand WC warm-up game to be played without fans

In a dramatic build-up to the ODI World Cup 2023 warm-up game between Pakistan and New Zealand, it has been recently informed that no fans will be allowed to attend the game that will be played at the Rajiv Gandhi International stadium in Hyderabad.

The lack of security cover has been stated as the reason why fans will not be allowed to attend. The problem with the inadequate security cover rose due to the ever-changing schedule of the games and their clashes with the various festivals. Furthermore, the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) will be issuing directions to BookMyShow to refund the tickets to the fans who have already bought it for the game.

The same was said by an official of the BCCI, “The game will be played without spectators, and those who have booked their tickets will have their money will be refunded,” the official was quoted as saying by The Indian Express.

The Hyderabad police had already informed the Hyderabad Cricket Association about the lack of personnel that would be present on the day of the game, and they even asked the board to postpone the game. However, it seems like the original plan is in motion. With the games being played as per the original schedule, the fans’ entry to the stadium will be barred.

There have been several questions raised over the two back-to-back matches of the ODI World Cup 2023 in Hyderabad on October 9 and 10. The first game will see New Zealand and the Netherlands take on each other, whereas Pakistan and Sri Lanka take centre stage on October 10.

Due to the large amount of personnel (3000) will be deployed for one game, the other large portion will be present at the hotel where the Pakistan cricket team will be staying. The reason for the same issue has been the ever-changing schedule of the World Cup, with up to nine games being rescheduled. The marquee event is all set to begin on October 5, with England and New Zealand facing off against one another in Ahmedabad.