Pakistan's Cricket World Cup Warm-Up Match In Hyderabad To Be Played Behind Closed Doors - Here's Why

Due to the advise of local security services in Hyderabad, the Cricket World Cup 2023 warm-up game between Pakistan and New Zealand on September 29 will be played behind closed doors. 
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced on Monday that the game will clash with a local festival, and security officials were unsure about the preparations. The BCCI press release also noted that fans who have already purchased tickets for the game will be refunded as a result of the postponement.

"According to the advice of local security agencies, the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023 warm-up match between New Zealand and Pakistan scheduled for September 29th in Hyderabad will now take place behind closed doors.

" The match in Hyderabad comes with a day of celebrations, and massive crowds are expected throughout the city. "Those who purchased tickets for the game will receive a full refund," BCCI stated in a press release.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed on Monday that members of the Pakistan cricket squad were awarded Indian visas for the Cricket World Cup, hours after the PCB voiced significant concerns with the global body about the delay in the national team's trip to Hyderabad.

The visa approval came less than 48 hours before Pakistan's intended trip to India on September 27. On September 29, they play their first warm-up game against New Zealand in Hyderabad. "Visas have been issued to Pakistan," according to an ICC spokeswoman.

However, misunderstanding lingered in the Pakistani camp regarding visa issuance.

"We have not yet received a call from the Indian High Commission regarding visa clearance." "There is a member of our team there," PCB spokesperson Umar Farooq told PTI.

The ICC confirmed the visa delay after the PCB wrote to ICC CEO Geoff Allardice on Monday, claiming the tense wait had hampered the team's preparation for the 50-over showpiece.