After weeks of uncertainty and logistical challenges, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has finalized the revised schedule for England’s upcoming Test tour of Pakistan. The three-match Test series, part of the ICC World Test Championship, will now see back-to-back fixtures in Multan followed by a series finale in Rawalpindi.
Originally, the second Test was set to take place in Karachi, where England secured a historic 3-0 sweep in their last tour of Pakistan in December 2022. However, ongoing renovation work at the National Stadium in Karachi ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy in February 2025 prompted a change in venues. Additionally, Rawalpindi was initially unavailable for the second Test due to a major international conference scheduled in neighboring Islamabad.
Amid growing speculation that the series could be moved to the UAE, with Abu Dhabi considered a possible alternative venue, an agreement was finally reached to retain the original locations. As per the new itinerary, the series will start with back-to-back Tests in Multan, while the third and final match will take place in Rawalpindi.
Revised Schedule:
- First Test: October 7-11, Multan
- Second Test: October 15-19, Multan
- Third Test: October 24-28, Rawalpindi
Both teams are expected to arrive in Multan on October 2, giving them ample time to acclimatize to the conditions. The series promises to be an exciting contest, with both teams vying for critical points in the World Test Championship standings.
PCB’s Statement
Usman Wahla, PCB Director, International, expressed his excitement about hosting the England team once again: “PCB is thrilled to welcome the England men’s cricket team back to Pakistan. Despite the minor adjustments, we are committed to supporting the fans and ensuring a memorable tour. We look forward to a fiercely competitive Test series and showcasing Pakistan’s renowned hospitality.”
The finalized schedule puts an end to the uncertainty that had surrounded the tour for weeks. England’s head coach, Brendon McCullum, previously voiced his concerns over the delay, noting that it impacted squad selection and preparations for the conditions. England has named a 17-player squad for the tour, allowing for flexibility given the unique challenges of playing in Pakistan.
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Challenges Leading to the Delay
The logistical complications leading to the schedule adjustment were not trivial. With Karachi’s National Stadium undergoing renovations and Rawalpindi initially unavailable due to the Islamabad conference, there were concerns about finding suitable venues within Pakistan. Discussions about moving the series to the UAE surfaced, raising concerns among fans and stakeholders. However, the PCB and England Cricket Board (ECB) managed to reach a consensus in time, ensuring the series would remain in Pakistan.
England fans, who had been eagerly awaiting the fixtures, faced frustrations due to the delays, with some tour operators even canceling their packages. However, with the final confirmation of dates and venues, excitement is once again building for what promises to be a thrilling series.
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