Pakistan-England: PCB moves second Test from Karachi to Multan

The reason for the decision was the renovation of the Karachi cricket stadium.

English cricket will travel to Pakistan for a three-match series between 7 and 28 October.

On Friday, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced a revised schedule for the International Cricket Council (ICC) World Test series between Pakistan and England, changing the venue of the second Test which will start on October 15 from Karachi to Multan due to the renovation of the National Bank Stadium.

The first and second Tests are scheduled to be played in Multan from October 7 to 19, followed by the third Test in Rawalpindi from October 24 to 28.

‘The second Test, originally scheduled at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi from October 15-19, will now be played at the Multan Cricket Stadium,’ declared the PCB in a statement. The match has been moved from Karachi to Multan as the National Bank Stadium is undergoing a major refurbishment in preparation for next year’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

The other two Tests will take place as scheduled in Multan and Rawalpindi, the PCB said it was delighted to welcome the England men’s cricket team to Pakistan.

‘Despite minor adjustments, we are committed to supporting the fans and ensuring a memorable tour,’ said the PCB. ‘We look forward to a highly competitive Test series and a demonstration of Pakistan’s renowned hospitality.

England’s cricket team last visited Pakistan in 2022-2023. It was their first tour in 17 years and included seven Twenty20 internationals followed by a three-match Test series.

England won the Tests 3-0, completing a historic sweep of Pakistan. The last time England visited Pakistan was in 2005. England were also due to visit in 2021, but pulled out at the last minute for security reasons after New Zealand cancelled their tour.