Pakistan vs England: Multan and Rawalpindi to host Test series
What's the story
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that the impending three-match Test series between Pakistan and England will be hosted by Multan and Rawalpindi. This announcement comes amid speculation about a potential change in venue owing to ongoing renovations across several stadiums in Pakistan. Karachi will not host the 2nd Test as renovations at the National Stadium are undergoing. The series, falling under the 2023-25 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, is set to commence on October 7.
Venue confirmation
England's concerns addressed by PCB
England's head coach, Brendon McCullum, had previously voiced concerns over the uncertainty surrounding the series venue. He stated that it was challenging to select a team without knowing where they would be playing. In response to these concerns, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has confirmed that the series will proceed as planned at the three venues.
Hosts
What about host venues?
Naqvi also asserted that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is satisfied with the arrangements made by the Pakistan board. As per the itinerary made public, the series opener will commence on October 7. As mentioned Karachi, the original host venue of the 2nd Test, will not do so in the series. Rawalpindi remains the only other host venue for the series. Notably, the board is yet to finalize venues for each of the three Tests.
Tournament update
PCB confident about hosting ICC Champions Trophy 2025
In addition to the Test series, Naqvi expressed confidence that Pakistan will host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This statement comes despite uncertainty over India's schedule in the tournament, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) awaiting government approval for the team's visit. The 50-over tournament is scheduled to be held between February and March next year.