'Don't know what's happening in Pakistan' - Brendon McCullum says England can't pick squad for Pakistan Test tour until venues are sorted

The three-match series which holds great significance as part of the World Test Championship (WTC), is set to begin on October 7 in Multan.

BET NOW: Exclusive sign-up offers and bonuses when you bet on cricket action

However, the venues for the other two matches, currently slated for Karachi and Rawalpindi, remain unclear due to ongoing renovations ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Pakistan’s preparations for hosting the Champions Trophy have caused major upgrades in the stadiums of Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Karachi, leading the PCB to consider alternative venues, including moving the series outside Pakistan.

This uncertainty has left McCullum seeking clarity as venue information is crucial for selecting the right squad for varying conditions.

MORE: What is Virat Kohli's record in Indian domestic cricket?

What did Brendon McCullum say about the venue issues?

Brendon McCullum has expressed frustration about the lack of clarity on the venues, stating that it hampers England's ability to pick the appropriate team.

Speaking to reporters before England’s final Test against Sri Lanka, McCullum stressed the urgency of the situation: “We don’t really know (what is happening in Pakistan), but we can’t pick a team until we know where we’re going to play.”

McCullum added that getting answers soon would allow for better preparation, ensuring that the squad could be chosen based on the specific conditions of the venues. 

MORE: Will Rohit Sharma join LSG? Jonty Rhodes hints Lucknow Super Giants will bid for India captain if he enters IPL 2025 auction

“It would be nice if, over the next couple of days, we found out. Then we’ll sit down and make sure we’ve got the right team for the right conditions and the right opposition,” he added.

Where could the matches be played if not in Pakistan?

If Pakistan is unable to host the series, there is speculation that the matches could be relocated to UAE or Sri Lanka.

Abu Dhabi is seen as a strong contender due to the unavailability of Dubai and Sharjah, which will host the Women's T20 World Cup during the same period.

MORE: India star batter Yashasvi Jaiswal reveals Gautam Gambhir's 'fearless cricket' mantra

McCullum, who was appointed as England’s white-ball head coach following Matthew Mott’s exit after the 2024 T20 World Cup, will be looking for clarity as soon as possible.

England last toured Pakistan in 2022, where they had remarkable success, whitewashing the hosts 3-0 using their aggressive Bazball strategy.