“No Tests Will Be Played Outside..” PCB Chairman Clears Rumours

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has confirmed that the upcoming three-match Test series between Pakistan and England will be held in Pakistan, dismissing rumors that the series could be moved to Sri Lanka or the UAE due to ongoing stadium renovations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Naqvi clarified that the series venues are finalized, with matches to be played in Multan and Rawalpindi.

Earlier reports had raised concerns about the venue availability due to renovation work at several stadiums, which even led to the shifting of Pakistan’s recent Test against Bangladesh from Karachi to Rawalpindi. Naqvi, however, reassured that despite ongoing construction, the series against England will proceed as planned in Pakistan.

England head coach Brendon McCullum had expressed uncertainty earlier in the week, stating that they were awaiting confirmation of the venues to finalize their team selection. With the venues now confirmed, the first Test will start on October 7 in Multan, followed by the second in Karachi on October 15, and the final Test in Rawalpindi on October 24. This series is part of the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle.