England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed that the England side would tour Pakistan in October 2021 for two T20Is in Karachi. This will mark England’s first tour to Pakistan in 16 years with their last visit coming way back in 2005.

The subsequent series between these sides were either held in England or UAE, which became Pakistan’s adopted home.

Tom Harrison, the ECB Chief Executive Officer said: “It’s a real pleasure to announce that the England men’s T20I squad will be playing in Pakistan in October 2021. This will be the first time since 2005 that an England team has toured Pakistan and as such it represents a significant moment for both nations.

“As was demonstrated this summer, we have a strong relationship with PCB, and ECB is delighted to be able to play our part in ensuring the safe return of international cricket to this wonderful nation of passionate cricket fans.”

PCB Chief Executive Wasim Khan was also hopeful of the tour opening up possibilities for more teams to visit Pakistan in the future.

“I am delighted to confirm that England will be touring Pakistan to play two T20s in October 2021,” Khan said.

“The full-strength England squad will arrive at the backend of our home white-ball series against New Zealand. We also expect Australia to visit Pakistan for their FTP commitment in early 2022, with England returning for both Test and white-ball tours in the 2022/23 season.

“The October 2021 T20Is will allow the leading England cricketers to access and examine the world-class arrangements we will put together, which will give them further encouragement and confidence to not only return in 2022/23 but also express their interest in the Pakistan Super League, which has grown to become one of the top leagues in the world.

England last played a series in Pakistan in 2005

“England’s visit to Pakistan for the 14 and 15 October 2021 T20Is will provide a further lift to our passionate fans, both in Pakistan and across the globe. The nation has waited patiently for cricket to return sustainably to Pakistan and the 2021 tours by South Africa, New Zealand and England will ensure international cricket is played uninterruptedly.”

The two T20Is come immediately before the scheduled 2021 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in India. It will give the two teams an ideal opportunity to prepare for the multi-nation event in conditions similar to those expected in India.