England's Pakistan Test Tour Revised: Back-to-Back Multan Fixtures

England's highly anticipated Test tour of Pakistan next month will unfold in a revised format, with back-to-back fixtures in Multan and a series finale in Rawalpindi. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has finally approved the updated schedule after weeks of uncertainty.

Initially, the three-Test series, part of the ICC World Test Championship, was set to feature a second Test in Karachi, where England had triumphed in a historic 3-0 clean sweep during their previous visit in December 2022. However, ongoing renovations at the National Stadium in Karachi for the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025 and a major international conference in Islamabad from October 15-16 rendered Rawalpindi unavailable for the second Test.

Amidst speculation that the series might be relocated to the UAE, an agreement has been reached to retain the original venues of Multan and Rawalpindi. However, the teams will now remain in Multan for the second Test as well.

England's arrival in Multan is scheduled for October 2, with Pakistan's squad assembling on the same date. The first Test will commence from October 7-11, followed by the second Test from October 15-19. The teams will then move to Rawalpindi for the third Test from October 24-28.

"PCB is thrilled to welcome the England men's cricket team back to Pakistan," said Usman Wahla, PCB Director, International. "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 announcement brings an end to the uncertainty surrounding the series, which had prompted England to name an unusually large touring squad of 17 players. England head coach Brendon McCullum had previously emphasized the need for advance knowledge of the venues to select a squad suited to the conditions.

The delay in finalizing the schedule had caused frustration among England's fans, with several tour operators canceling their arrangements due to logistical uncertainties.

Tags: #EnglandCricket, #PakistanCricket, #TestSeries, #Multan, #Rawalpindi