The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has officially released the Test tour schedule for Pakistan’s red-ball series in 2026. Pakistan will play three Test matches in August and September, marking their first Test tour of England since 2020.
The series is part of the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. Both sides are aiming for strong performances to improve their WTC standings. England is also targeting a spot in the final, which may be hosted on home soil.
The Test tour schedule announced by the ECB confirms the following venues and dates:
- 1st Test: August 19–23 at Headingley, Leeds
- 2nd Test: August 27–31 at Lord’s, London
- 3rd Test: September 9–13 at Edgbaston, Birmingham
These iconic grounds have hosted many historic battles between Pakistan and England. The upcoming tour is expected to renew that competitive spirit.
This will be Pakistan’s first red-ball visit to England since the COVID-affected 2020 series. That tour was played behind closed doors due to health restrictions. In 2026, full stadiums and enthusiastic crowds are expected.
The series will be important for Pakistan as they look to rebuild their Test squad. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) may bring in young players and fresh leadership. Current coach Azhar Mahmood is only confirmed for tours to South Africa and Bangladesh, suggesting a possible change in management before the England tour.
England, on the other hand, could also make changes. With several senior players nearing retirement, the team may introduce new faces for the future.
Earlier in the summer, England will host New Zealand for a separate three-match Test series starting in June. Lord’s will host the first match of that series as well.
Besides red-ball cricket, the ECB also confirmed that India and Sri Lanka will tour England for white-ball series. These matches will take place after the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. While exact schedules are pending, both teams are expected to play ODIs and T20Is.
With Pakistan, New Zealand, India, and Sri Lanka all visiting, the 2026 summer promises exciting cricket across all formats.In other cricket news, Pakistan will also compete in a tri-series with Afghanistan and the UAE ahead of the Asia Cup. Check the full schedule and details here.
