The Bangladesh Cricket Board and Pakistan Cricket Board on Tuesday, were able to reach a consensus to ensure Bangladesh’s upcoming tour of Pakistan would go ahead as planned. They will play two Tests, three T20Is and one ODI.
Shashank Manohar, ICC’s Chairman, acted as the facilitator.
However, the tour has been split into three parts with Bangladesh playing three T20Is, scheduled to be held between January 24 to 27. The Asian nation will return to Pakistan to play the first Test, starting on February 7. Pakistan’s players then will partake in the Pakistan Super League. After the conclusion of the PSL on March 22, the second Test of the series will begin on April 5. Incidentally, both Tests are part of the World Test Championship. Meanwhile, the one-off ODI will take place on April 3.
“I am pleased that we have amicably achieved a resolution that is in the best interest of this great sport as well as both the proud cricket playing countries. I also want to thank ICC Chairman Shashank Manohar for the leadership he provided and ensured the sport continues to grow and thrive in the two countries,” PCB Chairman Ehsan Mani said.
“It is a win-win outcome for both the boards. I am glad that the uncertainty around the series is now over and we can start planning for the smooth delivery of the matches. Bangladesh will visit Pakistan thrice, which should give them the comfort that Pakistan is as safe and secure as any other cricket playing country. The split series across three venues will also provide opportunities to fans and followers to watch live their favourite players in action and support good cricket from either side,” PCB Chief Executive Wasim Khan noted.
Earlier, BCB’s president Nazmul Hasan had noted that they are ready to play only three T20Is against Pakistan in their forthcoming tour as the government is reluctant to provide security clearance for a prolonged period due to the prevailing unrest in the Middle-East.
