England to play Bangladesh instead of Pakistan ahead of 2027 Ashes

England and Pakistan might not play a one-off Test against each other as talks between the two boards fall through. 

England to play one Test during IPL 2027

Earlier, the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) were understood to be in talks about playing a Test match in late May before the Ashes next year.

The timeline was important since the majority of players from other teams would be busy with the Indian Premier League (IPL). Pakistan, whose players do not play in the IPL, were seen as a good option to help gear up for the home Ashes.

Additionally, England need to schedule six home Tests during the summer in line with their broadcast deals. The one-off Test was initially in discussion to be played at Old Trafford. Recently, however, there were reports that the game could be shifted to the Lord’s Cricket Ground.

Pakistan turn down one-off Test idea

But Pakistan seem to have turned down the idea altogether, leaving the ECB looking at alternatives. Bangladesh appear as forerunners to replace Pakistan for the one-off Test match during the same time. 

If this happens, this will be the first time since 2016 that both teams will play each other in the longest format. England visited Bangladesh for a two-match Test series in October 2016. Bangladesh, on the other hand, haven’t played any Test match in England since 2010.

Pakistan and England are due to meet in a three-match Test series in September this year anyway. Earlier, the ECB confirmed it is looking to expand its five-match Test series to opponents like Pakistan from the next World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.

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