Get ready for a thrilling cricket showdown as Pakistan and England lock horns in two back-to-back Test matches, scheduled for October in Multan. The venue switch comes after Karachi was ruled out due to ongoing renovations at the National Bank Stadium. England’s arrival in Multan is slated for October 2nd, with the Test series kicking off on October 7th and concluding on the 19th. Following the Multan fixtures, the final Test of the series will be played in Rawalpindi starting October 24th.
Originally, Karachi was designated to host the second Test match. However, the National Stadium is undergoing a significant facelift in preparation for hosting the 2024 Champions Trophy. Despite the venue change, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has assured fans of an unforgettable experience. “Despite minor adjustments, we are committed to supporting fans and ensuring a memorable tour,” Usman Wahla, PCB Director International, stated in a press release. “We look forward to a fiercely competitive Test series and showcasing Pakistan’s renowned hospitality.”
This series holds crucial significance as it falls under the World Test Championship. England currently ranks sixth in the standings, while Pakistan finds itself in eighth place, just above the bottom-ranked West Indies. Pakistan’s recent home performances have been underwhelming, leaving them winless in Tests since their victory against South Africa in 2021. Since then, they have suffered six consecutive Test defeats, including a disheartening 2-0 loss against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi.
England, on the other hand, boasts a formidable record in Pakistan, having achieved a clean sweep with a 3-0 victory during their last tour in 2022. The upcoming series promises to be a battle of cricketing titans, with both teams eager to claim victory and secure valuable points in the World Test Championship race. With Multan set to witness an intense cricketing spectacle, fans around the globe are eagerly awaiting the clash between these two cricketing powerhouses.
