Following Afghanistan’s withdrawal from the upcoming T20I tri-nation series, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) finalised Zimbabwe as its replacement after actively exploring options to keep the tournament on schedule. “Zimbabwe Cricket has accepted the Pakistan Cricket Board’s invitation to participate in a T20I tri-series also featuring Sri Lanka, to be staged in Rawalpindi and Lahore from 17 to 29 November,” PCB said.
The tri-nation series, which also features Sri Lanka, is set to be held in Lahore from November 17 to 29. Despite the sudden pull-out by Afghanistan, the PCB has reaffirmed its commitment to staging the tournament as planned.
According to a PTI report, talks were ongoing with associate members Nepal and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) but the preference was given to a Test-playing nation.
The tri-series will commence on 17 November, with hosts Pakistan taking on Zimbabwe at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The second fixture will also be played at the same venue on 19 November, when Sri Lanka take on Zimbabwe.
Following the two matches in Rawalpindi, the action will shift to Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, which will stage the remaining five matches, including the final on 29 November.
