For Afghanistan, this event signifies their first T20I match on Pakistani soil, despite having played five ODI matches in the country, the most recent during this year’s ICC Men’s Champions Trophy. Following the opening match, Afghanistan will compete against Sri Lanka on November 19, also at the Rawalpindi venue.
The series will then shift to Lahore, where all remaining matches, including the final, are scheduled to be held at the Gaddafi Stadium. The event is part of a broader cricketing season in Pakistan, which will also see the hosting of South Africa across all three formats in October and November.
According to the Pakistan Cricket Board’s Chief Operating Officer, Sumair Ahmed Syed, this tri-series is not only a preparatory platform for the World Cup but also an opportunity for cricket fans to enjoy competitive matches at home. The PCB anticipates that the series will bring thrilling cricket to the fans and provide valuable exposure to the teams involved.
The complete schedule is as follows:
– November 17: Pakistan vs Afghanistan, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
– November 19: Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
– November 22: Pakistan vs Sri Lanka, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
– November 23: Pakistan vs Afghanistan, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
– November 25: Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
– November 27: Pakistan vs Sri Lanka, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
– November 29: Final, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
The tri-series is expected to offer crucial match practice for all participating teams as they build towards the prestigious ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.