The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has revealed the revised schedule for the upcoming test series against England. With the discussion about changing the venue for the PAK-ENG tests online, the board has confirmed the venue change on Friday.
Pakistan’s sports governing body has shifted the second test from Karachi to Multan due to the renovation works for the forthcoming Champions Trophy in 2025.
The first two matches will be hosted as the opening game of the three-match series against England. The Pakistan board has confirmed that Karachi will not be available for international matches due to the construction work for next year’s ICC Champions Trophy.
The PCB had also shifted the second test match of the recently concluded Bangladesh series to Karachi but was confident of the completion of the renovation works.
These included playing the second game in Rawalpindi keeping it in Karachi but playing it behind closed doors, and even playing one test in Abu Dhabi. The eventual solution allowed the PCB to present the change as minor adjustments which means that any international flights booked in July will not need to be changed.
“PCB is thrilled to welcome the England men’s cricket team back to Pakistan,” the PCB director Usman Wahla said.
“Despite minor adjustments, we are committed to supporting fans and ensuring a memorable tour. We look forward to a fiercely competitive Test series and showcasing Pakistan’s renowned hospitality.”
All three fixtures will be part of the ICC WTC 2023-25 cycle and both teams remain in contention to make the final. Pakistan will be aiming to recover from a winless streak in Test Cricket at home. Meanwhile, England will be confident about taking Pakistan as they recently secured a 2-1 victory against Sri Lanka at home.
Captain Ben Stokes and experienced spinner Jack Leach are back in the Three Lions squad which also featured uncapped Brydon Carse and Josh Hull.
England were the first team to defeat Pakistan at their home with a dominant 3-0 in 2022. England remains unbeaten against Pakistan in their last seven encounters.
The first test match of the England-Pakistan test series is to be played between October 7 and 11 at Multan Cricket Stadium.
