Pakistan Cricket Board issues an official statement on TV Blackout for England Tests

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is hopeful about securing a broadcaster for the upcoming three-match home Test series against England in the United Kingdom (UK).

Recent reports suggested that no broadcasters have shown interest in airing the upcoming red-ball series in the United Kingdom.

The Men in Green are currently playing a two-match Test series against Bangladesh at home, which is not being broadcast in India due to the lack of a Bangladeshi broadcaster amid ongoing political issues in Bangladesh.

Following this series, Pakistan will host England for the Test series starting on October 7.

The first Test between England and The Men in Green will be played at the Multan Cricket Stadium from October 7 to 11. Karachi and Rawalpindi will host the remaining matches.

The series is part of the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. Notably, two teams haven't reached the WTC final in the first two seasons.

Pakistan Cricket Board Issued Tender for UK Broadcasters

According to The Guardian, the PCB issued a tender last month for UK broadcasters to cover their upcoming series but received no bids.

Sky Sports, which held the rights and broadcast England’s 3-0 victory in The Men in Green in December 2022, has confirmed it will not be bidding for the series.

TNT Sport has also opted not to pursue broadcasting rights for the upcoming series.

Sky Sports is focused on securing exclusive rights for England’s home series and major international events, such as the World Cup, T20 World Cup, and the Champions Trophy, which will take place in Pakistan next year.

Broadcasters Not Coming Forward for UK Rights - Report

Geo News reported that the PCB is actively seeking new broadcasters for the upcoming series against England. With more than seven weeks remaining before the series begins, the PCB is optimistic about finalizing arrangements and ensuring that the series will be broadcast in England.

“Broadcasters not coming forward does not mean that discussions with broadcasters are not ongoing,” PCB sources told Geo News.

“Discussions are underway to telecast the series in England. There are still seven weeks left before the first Test against England starts, we are hopeful that people in England will get to watch the series.”

Pakistan's Jam-Packed Schedule Has Started With Bangladesh Series

The Men in Green's jam-packed schedule has started with a two-match Test series against Bangladesh at home.

The Men in Green will lock horns with England in the three-match Test series at home in October.

Pakistan is scheduled to tour Australia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa in November and December.

The Men in Green will play only white-ball cricket against Australia and Zimbabwe and will face South Africa in all three formats.

They will host a Test series against the West Indies in January 2025. New Zealand, South Africa, and The Men in Green will play a tri-series in February before the Champions Trophy 2025.

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