Cricket k Halaat is heating up as the highly anticipated Pakistan-England Test series finally gets the green light from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). The tour, part of the ICC World Test Championship, faced delays due to venue concerns, but it’s now confirmed that Multan will host two consecutive Tests, followed by a thrilling finale in Rawalpindi.
Originally, the second Test was scheduled to take place in Karachi, a city that holds significant historical importance for cricket in Pakistan. It was here in December 2022 that England made history with a 3-0 clean sweep against Pakistan. However, due to ongoing renovations at the National Stadium in preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025, the PCB was forced to revise the schedule. Adding to the complexity, Rawalpindi was initially unavailable for the second Test due to a major international conference in neighboring Islamabad.
At one point, it seemed that the entire series might be shifted to the UAE, with Abu Dhabi being considered as a potential venue. However, after extensive discussions, the PCB reached an agreement to keep the series on home soil. The first two Tests will now take place in Multan, with the third and final Test in Rawalpindi. This decision came after weeks of uncertainty, frustrating both teams and fans alike.
The series will begin on October 7 in Multan, where both teams will be stationed for the first and second Tests. The final match will be held in Rawalpindi, starting on October 24.
Here’s the updated schedule for the series:
- 1st Test: October 7-11, Multan
- 2nd Test: October 15-19, Multan
- 3rd Test: October 24-28, Rawalpindi
PCB Director, International, Usman Wahla, expressed the board’s excitement about hosting England again, stating, “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.”
England’s large 17-player touring squad, announced last week, was designed with the conditions in mind, but the uncertainty about the venues caused frustration for English fans. Many tour operators even canceled their travel plans due to the delays in confirming the fixtures.
This Test series is particularly significant as it plays a key role in the ICC World Test Championship standings. Both Pakistan and England will be looking to solidify their positions, with Pakistan aiming to regain their footing after their previous loss to England in Karachi.
Cricket k Halaat has never been more intense, and the Pakistan-England Test series promises to be a spectacle of skill, strategy, and national pride. As Multan and Rawalpindi prepare to host, fans across Pakistan are eager to see their team in action on home ground once again.
Stay tuned to Halaat Sports for more updates, live coverage, and expert analysis of the series!