Test Cricket to Return to Pakistan after Over 10 Years of Absence

It was Sri Lanka in 2008, that was the last team to play Pakistan in Pakistan. At a time when teams were abandoning tours to the country on security grounds, Pakistan were hoping a good Sri Lanka tour would show the path for a better future for cricket in the country, but it was not to be.

10 cricket-barren years on, Pakistan once again look to a Sri Lanka tour to reinstate cricket in their country.

Sri Lanka is set to play a two match test series in Pakistan as a part of the World Test Championship.

The first Test will be played at the Pindi Cricket Stadium, Rawilpindi from 11-15 December, while the second Test will be held at the National Stadium, Karachi from 19-23 December

According to a press release from Pakistan Cricket, PCB Director – International Cricket, Zakir Khan, said: “This is a fabulous news for Pakistan cricket and its reputation of being as safe and secure as any other country in the world. We are thankful to Sri Lanka Cricket for agreeing to send their team for the longer version of the game, which will contribute significantly in the PCB’s efforts and drive for regular resumption of international cricket, and help in its endeavours of attracting new audiences and younger generation.

“Now that the itinerary has been confirmed, we will shift our focus on series preparations to ensure we deliver arrangements as per our very high standards. This series is part of our cricket celebrations and we will leave no stone unturned in putting up a show which is a memorable one for the players, officials, fans and media.”

The test series was initially scheduled to be held in October, and they were to later return to play ODIs. But it was rescheduled to provide opportunity to assess the situation before deciding on the Test venues, as per a press release by PCB.

Confirming the series, SLC chief executive Ashley de Silva said: “We are pleased to confirm our return visit to Pakistan as, based on our earlier visit, we are comfortable and convinced conditions are suitable and conducive for Test cricket.

“We also believe all cricket playing countries should host international cricket at home and in this relation we are happy to play our part in complete resumption of international cricket in Pakistan, which not only has a proud history but has been one of our biggest supporters in our early days as a cricket nation.

“We drew our opening World Test Championship series against New Zealand, and I anticipate, like in the past, these two Tests will be exciting and competitive, and the fans will thoroughly enjoy the quality of cricket that will be on display.”