PCB Confirms Pakistan to Host England Test Series Despite Venue Concerns
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has firmly denied rumors that the upcoming Test series against England will be moved out of the country. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has emphasized that Pakistan will host the series as scheduled, despite concerns over the availability of venues due to ongoing construction work.
The three-match Test series is set to commence on October 7, with Multan, Karachi, and Rawalpindi designated as the host cities. However, the PCB’s international cricket department has yet to finalize the itinerary, leaving the board frustrated.
“With less than a month remaining for the first Test, the international department is yet to even decide where the first match would be held,” a PCB insider revealed.
Despite Naqvi’s insistence on hosting the series in Pakistan, the department has not formally announced the tour itinerary. The delay has raised concerns among the English Cricket Board and Barmy Army members, who are eager to know the venue for the first Test.
The insider expressed concerns that the delayed announcement is affecting the PCB’s revenue generation opportunities. Broadcasters are struggling to sell the telecast rights of the series abroad, particularly in the UK.
“The more the announcement is delayed, the more it is hitting the PCB’s chances of earning good revenues from the England series,” the insider said.
The PCB has also faced criticism for postponing the National Under-19 Championship after just one day of play. The postponement was attributed to complaints about the selection process and the lack of an approved budget.
The PCB’s handling of the upcoming Test series and the National Under-19 Championship has raised questions about the board’s efficiency and planning. The PCB must address these concerns promptly to ensure the smooth conduct of the England series and the development of young cricketers in Pakistan.