LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially announced the schedule for the highly anticipated three-match T20 International series between Pakistan and Australia, set to be played in Lahore later this month. The series will provide vital match practice for both teams as preparations intensify for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
According to the PCB, all three T20Is will be hosted at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, on January 29, January 31, and February 1. The Australian squad is scheduled to arrive in Lahore on January 28, one day before the opening fixture.
Match officials have confirmed that the coin toss for each game will take place at 5:30 PM Pakistan Standard Time (PST), while the first ball will be bowled at 6:00 PM PST, allowing fans to enjoy the action under lights.
The upcoming series holds significant importance for both sides as they fine-tune combinations and strategies ahead of the global T20 event. Pakistan have been placed in Group A, while Australia will compete in Group B during the 2026 T20 World Cup. With limited international windows available, this series offers a crucial opportunity for experimentation and assessment.
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This tour will mark Australia’s third visit to Pakistan since 2022, highlighting the strengthening cricketing ties between the two nations. During their historic March–April 2022 tour, Australia played a full Test series, an ODI series, and a one-off T20I on Pakistani soil. The visitors also featured in three ICC Champions Trophy 2025 matches in Pakistan, further underlining their growing comfort with conditions in the country.
Australia previously enjoyed success at the Gaddafi Stadium, securing a narrow three-wicket victory in the only T20I played at the venue on April 5, 2022. That match remains a reference point as both teams prepare for another competitive contest in Lahore.
Reacting to the announcement, PCB Chief Operating Officer Sumair Ahmed Syed expressed enthusiasm over hosting the Australian side once again. He described the series as an exciting start to the year for Pakistan cricket fans and encouraged supporters to attend the matches in large numbers.
He also noted that the Gaddafi Stadium has become a familiar venue for the Australian team, having hosted multiple Tests, ODIs, and T20Is since 2022. The PCB expects strong fan engagement and a vibrant atmosphere throughout the series.
With top international players expected on both sides, the Pakistan-Australia T20I series promises high-quality cricket and intense competition, making it one of the most awaited bilateral contests of the early international season.
Pakistan vs Australia series schedule
- 1st T20I – Thursday, 29 January – 6pm PKT
- 2nd T20I – Saturday, 31 January – 6pm PKT
- 3rd T20I – Sunday, 1 February – 6pm PKT
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