Multan Cricket StadiumImage Source : GETTY

PCB announces revised schedule for England Tests; Multan to host opening two games

“PCB is thrilled to welcome the England men’s cricket team back to Pakistan. Despite minor adjustments, we are committed to supporting fans and ensuring a memorable tour. We look forward to a fiercely competitive Test series and showcasing Pakistan’s renowned hospitality," the PCB director said.

by · India TV

Pakistan Cricket Board finalised the revised schedule for the upcoming Test series against England on Friday. The PCB shifted the second Test from Karachi to Multan due to the ongoing renovation with the latter also set to host the opening game of the three-match series starting on October 7. 

The PCB confirmed that Karachi will not be available for any international matches due to the construction work for next year's ICC Champions Trophy. The PCB had also shifted the second Test match of the recently concluded Bangladesh series from Multan to Karachi but was confident of completing the renovation before the start of the England series. 

“PCB is thrilled to welcome the England men’s cricket team back to Pakistan," the PCB director Usman Wahla said. “Despite minor adjustments, we are committed to supporting fans and ensuring a memorable tour. We look forward to a fiercely competitive Test series and showcasing Pakistan’s renowned hospitality.”

England tour of Pakistan 2024 Revised Schedule:

  • 7-11 Oct – First Test, Multan
  • 15-19 Oct – Second Test, Multan
  • 24-28 Oct – Third Test, Rawalpindi

All three fixtures are part of the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle and both teams still remain in contention to make the final. Pakistan will be looking to end their embarrassing losing winless streak in Test cricket at home but face a tough challenge against in-form England who defeated Sri Lanka 2-1 in their latest Test assignment at home.

Captain Ben Stokes and experienced spinner Jack Leach are back in the Three Lions squad which also featured uncapped Brydon Carse and the recently-debutant Josh Hull. 

Notably, England were among the first team to hammer Pakistan at their home with a dominant 3-0 win in 2022. England remains uneaten against Pakistan in their last seven encounters against Pakistan and will once again enter the series as clear favourites.