PCB Plans Alternative as Afghanistan-Pakistan Match Threatened by Conflict
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is currently revising its strategies as concerns mount over Afghanistan’s participation in an upcoming T20 Tri-Series due to ongoing military tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan. This series, which also includes Sri Lanka, is set to take place from November 17 to November 29.
PCB’s Alternative Plans Amidst Conflict
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has taken the initiative to reach out to the International Cricket Council (ICC) to explore alternative plans, ensuring the Tri-Series proceeds as scheduled.
Schedule Adjustments and Sri Lanka’s Participation
In response to the potential absence of Afghanistan, the PCB has invited Sri Lanka for three T20 internationals from November 11 to November 15. This series will occur just before the Tri-Series featuring Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Concerns with Cricket Australia
The discussions with Sri Lanka also pose complications for the PCB regarding contracts with Cricket Australia. Several Pakistani players, including Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, have been signed by Big Bash teams based on agreements that provided them NOCs for the tournament scheduled in December and January.
- Babar Azam
- Mohammad Rizwan
- Shadab Khan
- Shaheen Shah Afridi
- Hassan Khan
- Haris Rauf
- Hasan Ali
If the series with Sri Lanka is finalized, this could lead to a conflict with Cricket Australia regarding the NOCs. A source mentioned that if adjustments are made, it could leave selectors with limited options.
Financial Implications
Cricket Australia has expressed their concern to the PCB, noting that they have already invested significantly in promotional campaigns centered around the Pakistani players in the Big Bash.
Upcoming International Fixtures
Pakistan’s next major white-ball series will be in January. Australia is set to tour Pakistan for three ODIs and three T20 internationals. This series is critical as it leads into the ICC World T20 Cup.
The PCB continues to navigate these complex dynamics as it aims to provide a competitive environment for its players while ensuring their international commitments are honored.
