LAHORE: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has dismissed rumors about potential venue changes for the upcoming three-match Test series against England, reaffirming that the matches will take place in Pakistan.
In a recent interaction with journalists, Naqvi stated that the series will proceed as scheduled, with matches to be held in Multan and Rawalpindi. “No Tests will be played outside the country. Multan and Rawalpindi are confirmed as the venues,” Naqvi said during his visit to the Gaddafi Stadium to oversee renovation work.
Recent reports had suggested that the Karachi Test, initially scheduled for October 15-19, might be relocated to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) due to ongoing construction at major stadiums in Pakistan. However, Naqvi reassured that the series will remain in Pakistan, with the matches slated for Multan (October 7-11), Karachi, and Rawalpindi (October 24-28).
England coach Brendon McCullum had previously voiced concerns about the venue uncertainties, stating, “We don’t really know what is happening in Pakistan, but we can’t finalize our team until we know where we’ll be playing.”
Naqvi also addressed speculation regarding changes in Pakistan’s team captaincy. He noted that decisions on captaincy will be made by the team’s coaches and selectors. “I have left these matters to them,” Naqvi said, adding that a workshop is scheduled for September 22 to discuss potential leadership changes. Mohammad Rizwan has been mentioned as a potential captain across formats.
Furthermore, Naqvi revealed plans for a “Connection Camp,” a strategic meeting with PCB officials, coaches, selectors, and senior cricketers, to shape the future direction of Pakistan cricket. The camp will focus on upcoming challenges and strategies, including preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Naqvi confirmed that the Champions Trophy will be hosted in Pakistan despite uncertainties surrounding India’s participation. He has been in contact with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary and assured that the tournament will proceed as planned.
Regarding recent developments in the cricketing world, Naqvi addressed Jay Shah’s new role as ICC Chairman and the upcoming Asian Cricket Council (ACC) meeting. “We have no concerns about Jay Shah becoming ICC Chairman.
The ACC meeting on September 8 and 9 will finalize matters related to the new president,” he said. Naqvi will not attend the meeting, but Salman Nasir will represent the PCB.
