Pak-Eng Test series likely to shift to UAE, Sri Lanka

• Pakistan will play three-match Test series against England.
• The trials are scheduled to take place in Multan, Karachi, Rawalpindi.
• The delay in construction is preventing the series from going ahead as planned.

The Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) comprehensive upgrade program for stadiums in Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi has increased uncertainty over the national team’s Test series against England.

Pakistan are set to face England in a three-match Test series — part of the ongoing International Cricket Council (ICC) World Test Championship 2023-25 ​​— starting with the first Test scheduled from 7 to 11 October in Multan.

The second Test is scheduled in Karachi from October 15 to 19 and will be followed by the final match to be played in Rawalpindi from October 24 to 28.

However, ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025, the PCB has decided to renovate the venues that will host the big event, such as the Karachi and Lahore National Stadium and the Gaddafi Stadium, respectively, along with the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

The construction delay prevents the series from going ahead as planned. If construction is halted, it will affect the 2025 mega event.

Furthermore, hosting matches without spectators is not a favorable option.

The cricket body, in response to these issues, plans to look at alternatives such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) or Sri Lanka.

However, Abu Dhabi is the only option in the UAE as the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup is set to be held in Dubai and Sharjah from October 3-20.

With the final decision yet to be taken, the board is expected to announce the final venue after discussion with the England Cricket Board (ECB) in the coming days.

It is worth noting that the Green Jerseys recently suffered defeat to Bangladesh, dropping to eighth place after a stunning series defeat. This series against England is essential for the team.