England are preparing to host Pakistan for a historic five-match Test series. This will be the first such series since 1992. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is in active talks with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
The proposed Test series is part of a wider reshaping of England’s home schedule. The ECB is reviewing how it structures future international fixtures. The focus is on strengthening long-format cricket.
Officials say the ECB is moving away from the traditional home-and-away balance model. This change will begin in the next World Test Championship cycle. The new cycle starts with the Ashes next summer.
The ECB aims to follow models used by Australia and India. Both countries regularly host five-match Test rubbers. Internal research also shows strong support for Test cricket in England.
The last five-match Test series between England and Pakistan in England took place in 1992. Pakistan won that series 2-1 under Javed Miandad. It remains a memorable chapter in cricket history.
Pakistan last toured England in 2024 for a three-match Test series. However, a five-match Test series would mark a major expansion. It would also increase competitive and commercial value.
Reports suggest South Africa are also being considered for future five-match tours in 2032 and 2036. Pakistan may serve as an alternative if plans change. However, both boards are strong candidates.
To balance longer home series, England may reduce Test tours to Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. These tours could include fewer Tests with more white-ball matches. This approach is designed to improve financial returns.
The ECB is also adapting to changes in the World Test Championship structure. The ICC plans to include all 12 Test-playing nations in one system. One-off Tests may now carry championship points.
This could allow England to play a rare single Test in Zimbabwe. It would be England’s first in Zimbabwe since 1996–97. The ECB supports expanding opportunities for smaller nations.
Under new proposals, each team will play 12 Tests against different opponents in a two-year cycle. A final will be held every two years at Lord’s until 2031.
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The upcoming Pakistan Test series is still under discussion. However, it is seen as a key step in reshaping modern Test cricket.
