Pakistan’s upcoming Home Test series against England might be held in the UAE instead of Pakistan. Various factors, such as security and logistical challenges, could force this change. The UAE offers a more reliable environment for the matches, having hosted many cricket series before with top-notch facilities and a safe setting. Fans will have to wait for official news on the venue change, but it looks like the UAE might be the new location for this thrilling cricket series.
Venue Challenges and Potential Relocation
Because stadiums in Pakistan are still being worked on, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is considering relocating one of the Pakistan’s upcoming Home Test series against England. Abu Dhabi, which has been a regular “home” ground for Pakistan during their long period away from home, is being considered as a possible substitute if necessary.
They are making significant changes to Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium and Karachi’s National Stadium. The Rawalpindi Stadium, which hosted the Tests against Bangladesh, is also being upgraded. These renovations are aimed at preparing the venues for the Champions Trophy next February. Lahore will not host any games until the Champions Trophy. Karachi, initially planned to host one Test in both the Bangladesh and England series, is now expected to host its first game only in January next year, when the West Indies come to play.
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This situation means that only Multan and Rawalpindi are available to hold Pakistan’s upcoming Home Test series against England. It’s probable that both venues will host all three Tests, but there’s concern that having two Tests in Rawalpindi might delay ongoing construction and impact preparations for the Champions Trophy.
Logistical Issues and Possible Alternatives
Another complication is the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) meeting in Islamabad from October 15-16. This high-profile event will create high security and accommodation demands, making Rawalpindi unavailable for the second Test, scheduled for October 15 to 19.
If the series is played fully in Pakistan, Rawalpindi could only host the first and third Tests, with the second Test needing to be held in Multan. Multan could potentially host two Tests, as it is the only practical location for the second Test. This means that either the first two or the last two Tests would need to be played in Multan.
This has led the PCB to explore other options, including Abu Dhabi. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi will have an Ireland series against South Africa ending on October 7. The same day the first Test is planned to begin. Unless the start date of the series changes, Abu Dhabi may be an unlikely option for the first Test.
The PCB needs to make a decision quickly as there is considerable pressure. England fans are likely to come for the series, but no plans can be made until the venues are confirmed.
“The final location is not decided yet,” McCullum said in a press conference before the third Test match with Sri Lanka at the Oval. “We can’t select our team until we know where we will be playing. It would be helpful if we could find out in the next few days. Once we know, we can plan and make sure we choose the right players for the conditions and the team we’re facing.”
The stadium improvements are happening during Pakistan’s busiest home season in years, with seven Test matches. Four white-ball games, the Champions Trophy, and a fuller domestic schedule all competing for time until well into next year.