England are reportedly considering South Africa or Pakistan as potential opponents for a five-Test series in 2028.
The series would fall in a year between England hosting Australia and India in Test series.
The Telegraph reports that the ECB believes “that series of greater length would help to cultivate interest in the Test game, beyond series involving other members of the ‘big three’, and show off the format’s unique capacity to develop narratives over multiple games. It is also thought that longer series will create more of a sense of occasion.”
Test nations outside the ‘big three’ have not been involved in a Test series of more than three matches since England toured South Africa for a four-match series in 2019-20.
The Proteas’ last five-match Test series was at home against England in 2004-05, while their last seven Test series – dating back to February 2023 – have all comprised just two matches.
In spite of this, Temba Bavuma’s team will face Australia in the World Test Championship final at Lord’s from 11-15 June.
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