In an unfortunate development, rain delayed the start of the first Twenty20 international between Pakistan and New Zealand on Thursday, forcing supporters of the Pakistani cricket team to seek cover under large plastic sheets at the Pindi Cricket Stadium.
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The stadium’s stands were left open to the elements, and when the rain began to pour, spectators could be seen seeking protection beneath large plastic sheets.
The video and images of the scenes went instantly viral on social media and fans came down heavily at the Pakistan Cricket Board for their blatant neglect towards the spectators.
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Watch: Pakistan Cricket Emabarassed
The experience became much more unpleasant for the supporters when the rain soaked the majority of the stadium’s cloth-covered seats.
🤦 Very disappointing arrangements for spectators under rain in Pindi Cricket Stadium. #PAKvNZ pic.twitter.com/OQAjbdTFeX
— Arfa Feroz Zake (@ArfaSays_) April 18, 2024
Where does the income from PSL go, why are the grounds not upgraded yet?
Mohsin Naqvi should also be investigated about this۔
— Irfan Shakir 🇵🇰 (@iamirfanshakir) April 18, 2024
It’s embarrassing in front of a Global audience of 17 crores watching this 82 countries spread across 6 continents. Hotly debated on Sky Cricket
— Rajan Ramadurai (@RajanR12717) April 18, 2024
Pakistan is set to host the ICC Champions Trophy next year. However, these images come as a grave embarrassment for the Pakistan Cricket Board.
Michael Bracewell, the captain of New Zealand, won the toss and chose to bat first before torrential rain drenched Pindi Stadium.
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After an almost four-year hiatus, Pakistani fast bowler Muhammad Amir is returning to the world of international cricket. After being cut from the team, the 32-year-old announced his retirement in December 2020. However, he had second thoughts last month and resolved to resume his career, which had also been put on hold due to a 2010 match-fixing ban.
In order to assess their bench strength before the World Cup in the United States and the West Indies in June, Pakistan also gave all-rounder Muhammad Irfan Khan, spinner Abrar Ahmed, and batter Usman Khan their T20I debuts.
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With 9 players out due to the Indian Premier League, Tim Robinson made his T20I debut for New Zealand.
