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Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has addressed the growing uncertainty regarding the upcoming three-match Test series between Pakistan and England. The series, which is part of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle, is scheduled to take place from October 7 to 28, 2024. Fans and analysts alike have been eager for clarity on where the matches will be held, as the cricketing world turns its attention to this highly anticipated contest.
Venue change amid stadium renovations?
In recent weeks, media reports had suggested that the series might be moved to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) due to ongoing renovations at key stadiums in Pakistan. These renovations are part of the country’s preparations to host the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025. The uncertainty surrounding the venues sparked concerns among both the Pakistan and England camps, with doubts over where the matches would be held just weeks before the scheduled start of the series.
Brendon McCullum expresses dissatisfaction
England’s head coach, Brendon McCullum, voiced his frustrations regarding the lack of clarity over the venues for the series. Speaking at The Oval ahead of England’s third Test against Sri Lanka, McCullum expressed concern over the impact the uncertainty could have on team preparations.
“We don’t really know what’s happening in Pakistan, but we can’t pick a team until we know where we’re going to play. It would be nice if, over the next couple of days, we found out,” McCullum said.
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PCB chief confirms venues for the Test series
In response to the concerns, PCB Chairman Naqvi reassured fans and stakeholders that the series will go ahead as planned in Pakistan, with matches set to take place in Multan and Rawalpindi. Naqvi also confirmed that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is satisfied with the arrangements made by the PCB.
“The home Test series against England will be held in Multan and Rawalpindi. We are in touch with the England board, and they are satisfied,” Naqvi stated, as quoted by Cricket Pakistan.
