BCCI confirms that Pakistan vs New Zealand warm-up game to be played behind closed doors

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has declared that the forthcoming warm-up match for the ODI World Cup, featuring Pakistan and New Zealand, will be conducted without spectators at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium. The match is set for September 29. The decision, based on guidance from local security authorities, stems from the fact that the match coincides with festive celebrations in Hyderabad. The BCCI released an official statement to convey this arrangement.

3 things you need to know

• India are all set to host the upcoming ODI World Cup from October 5 to November 19
• This is the first time India will host the ODI World Cup entirely in the country
• A total of 48 matches will be held across 10 venues during the course of the tournament

ODI World Cup: Pakistan vs New Zealand warm-up match to be played without spectators 

"The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 warm-up match between New Zealand and Pakistan scheduled to take place in Hyderabad on 29th September will now take place behind closed doors as per the advice of the local security agencies. The match in Hyderabad coincides with festivals on the day and large gatherings are expected around the city. The spectators who bought tickets for the game will receive a full refund," the BCCI wrote in its statement. 

More changes made to the ODI World Cup 2023 schedule

This is not the first time a change has been made to the ODI World Cup schedule. Earlier, the highly-anticipated match between India and Pakistan was rescheduled due to Navratri festivities in the country. The England vs. Pakistan match, originally scheduled for November 12 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, was moved to November 11 because of Durga Pujo celebrations in West Bengal.