Opening Test could be delayed by 24 hours after illness rocks England

England and Pakistan officials are mulling over a prospective 24-hour delay to the start of the first Test in Rawalpindi, after 14 members of the visiting contingent – including half the 16-man playing pool – were struck down by illness on Wednesday.

The issue is supposed to be a virus or bug rather than food poisoning. The unwell members have been asked to stay in their rooms to limit the risk of spreading the virus. Joe Root, speaking to the media on match eve, acknowledged that discussions were underway about a delayed start to the match.

Broadcast Schedule

Pakistan v England 2024
PAK v ENG 2nd Test, Multan
15th October to 19th October
Start time: 6:00 am BST
PAK v ENG 3rd Test, Rawalpindi
24th October to 28th October
Start time: 6:00 am BST