ZCZC
BSP-18
CRICKET-PAK-AUS-ODIS
Australia’s refusal forced Pakistan to play ODIs in UAE
KARACHI, Feb 10, 2019 (BSS/AFP) – Pakistan cricket authorities were forced
to schedule all five one-day internationals against Australia in the United
Arab Emirates after the Aussies refused to visit the Asian country over
security fears.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had invited Australia to play two of the five
one-day internationals in Pakistan to further their attempts to revive
international cricket at home, suspended since attacks on the Sri Lankan team
bus in 2009.
Since then Pakistan have hosted finals of Pakistan Super League for the
last two years and played matches against a World XI, Sri Lanka and the West
Indies.
A West Indies women’s team played three Twenty20 internationals in Karachi
from January 31-February 3 this year.
But Cricket Australia (CA) acted on their government’s advise not to tour
Pakistan where no Australian senior team has played since 1998 over security
fears.
PCB director Zakir Khan showed disappointment over Australia’s refusal to
tour.
“The PCB was optimistic that it will be able to convince Australia to send
its side for some matches after successfully staging high-profile bilateral
international series,” said Khan.
“But we are disappointed for the enthusiastic and passionate cricket fans
in Pakistan who will now have to wait for some more time before they can see
Australia playing in our country.”
The five-match series will kick off both team’s preparation for the World
Cup to be held in England from May 30-July 14.
Sharjah will host the first two matches on March 22 and 24 followed by
matches in Abu Dhabi (March 27) and Dubai (March 29 and 31).
Itinerary:
22 March – 1st ODI, Sharjah (d/n)
24 March – 2nd ODI, Sharjah (d/n)
27 March – 3rd ODI, Abu Dhabi (d/n)
29 March – 4th ODI, Dubai (d/n)
31 March – 5th ODI, Dubai (d/n)
BSS/AFP/ARS/1726 hrs