
- The final decision will be announced soon, says the PCB spokesperson.
- Zimbabwe close in as possible replacement: sources
- The tri-series will take place in Pakistan from November 17 to 29.
LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Saturday confirmed that the Tri-Nation T20I series will take place as scheduled, despite Afghanistan withdrawing from the tournament amid recent tensions between the two neighboring countries.
A PCB spokesperson said Geographic news that the event, which will be held in Pakistan from November 17 to 29, will go ahead as per the original schedule as the cricket board is considering options for the third team.
The spokesperson added that the final decision will be announced soon.
Sources aware of the developments indicated that the PCB has approached the Zimbabwe Cricket Board as a possible replacement for Afghanistan. The tri-nation series was originally scheduled to feature Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan, with the final scheduled to take place at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium.
Islamabad and Kabul witnessed rising tensions since October 12, when Taliban forces and Indian-backed Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), alias Fitna al-Khawarij, resorted to an unprovoked attack on Pakistan.
The Pakistan Armed Forces gave an adequate response to the aggression, killing more than 200 Afghan Taliban and affiliated militants in a self-defense action. The army’s media wing said 23 soldiers embraced martyrdom in clashes with Taliban forces and terrorists.