PCB scrambles to finalize England series schedule amid venue challenges

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is facing significant challenges in finalizing the schedule for the upcoming Test series against England, drawing frustration from both the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Barmy Army, a passionate group of English cricket fans. The PCB has assured that the final schedule will be released within the next 24 to 48 hours.

The English cricket team is set to tour Pakistan early next month for a three-match Test series. As per the initial schedule, the first Test was to be played in Multan from October 7 to 11, the second in Karachi from October 15 to 19, and the third in Rawalpindi from October 24 to 28. However, ongoing construction work at the National Stadium in Karachi has forced its removal as a venue, creating complications for the PCB in finalizing an alternative schedule.

Previously, one of the Test matches in Pakistan’s series against Bangladesh had also been moved from Karachi to Rawalpindi due to similar issues.

The situation has been further complicated by the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, which is scheduled to be held in Islamabad on October 15 and 16. Heads of state from various countries will be attending the summit, leading to stringent security and accommodation requirements in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. As a result, hosting the second Test in Rawalpindi during this period is no longer feasible.

The delay in finalizing the schedule has led to mounting frustration from the ECB and the Barmy Army, as they are left with limited time to arrange travel and accommodation for the series. While the PCB considered relocating the series to the UAE or Sri Lanka, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi recently confirmed that all three matches will be held in Pakistan.

The PCB's International Cricket Department has yet to finalize the new schedule. Sources suggest that options under consideration include hosting both the first and second Test matches in Multan or moving the first and third matches to Rawalpindi. Faisalabad, which is currently hosting the Champions Cup, was not reviewed as a potential venue by the ECB during its inspection in August, further limiting the available options.

PCB officials have stated that all relevant departments are working closely to resolve the scheduling issues. The board hopes to release the final schedule within the next two days, while continuing to update the ECB and the Barmy Army on the situation.