Pakistan’s ODI Tri-Series With Zimbabwe and Ireland Likely to Be Revised

Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail

Pakistan’s planned ODI tri-series featuring Zimbabwe and Ireland may no longer take place in its original format after Zimbabwe became unavailable for the scheduled tour of Pakistan.

According to reports, Zimbabwe’s participation in the Pakistan-hosted series has been affected by commercial considerations. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Zimbabwe Cricket are now discussing an alternative window for the teams to play their scheduled matches.

With Zimbabwe’s participation uncertain, the planned tri-series could be replaced by a bilateral ODI series between Pakistan and Ireland. A one-off Test had also been discussed as part of Ireland’s tour, but the possibility of that match now appears less likely.

A Cricket Ireland spokesperson told Cricinfo that the organization is working with the PCB on a revised schedule and that further details will be announced once the arrangements are finalized.

The original tri-series was planned as part of Pakistan’s preparations for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, which is scheduled to be jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia next year.

Pakistan already has several other international assignments lined up. The national team is scheduled to host an ODI tri-series involving Sri Lanka and England next month.

The PCB is also working on arrangements for a five-match bilateral series against Bangladesh, while Pakistan’s five-match series in England next summer has already been confirmed.

Ireland also has an important assignment ahead, with the team scheduled to participate in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifiers in February next year. The qualifiers will provide Ireland with an opportunity to compete for a place in the World Cup.

A revised schedule for Ireland’s tour of Pakistan is expected to be announced after discussions between the two cricket boards are completed.