PCB trying to bring New Zealand to Pakistan for a few matches

New Zealand are scheduled to play Pakistan for a three-match Test series, five-match ODI series and a three-match T20I series, starting in October, in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). New Zealand Cricket (NZC) announced the squads for all three formats. Ajaz Patel, the left-arm spinner, was the only newcomer in the team. Their A team against Pakistan A was also announced.

Meanwhile, NZC, in their email to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), mentioned that all the matches will be played in the UAE. However, the PCB is their hearts out to convince them to play a few matches in Pakistan as per reports in Pak Passion. The Kiwis’ reluctance to play in the nation can well and truly be understood bearing in mind the turbulent political scenario in the country.

Return of cricket to Pakistan

Meanwhile, cricket is slowly, but steadily returning to the war-stricken nation. Back in 2015, Zimbabwe visited Pakistan for an ODI and a T20I series. The World XI team, captained by Faf du Plessis, also toured the country. Sri Lanka played a T20I last year at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The Windies also played three 20-overs matches a couple of months earlier.

Pakistan also hosted a few matches of the second and third edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Last time around the Black Caps had a reasonable campaign when they toured the UAE in 2014. They played Pakistan in three Tests, a couple of T20Is and five ODIs.

The Test series was drawn after the Kiwis stormed back in Sharjah to draw level in the series after the hosts won in Abu Dhabi. The T20I series was drawn after which Kane Williamson’s men brushed the home team aside by 3-2 in the 50-overs format. Pakistan will also play bilateral series’ against Australia in the UAE.

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