Article:
ISLAMABAD: The Zimbabwe national cricket team has touched down in Pakistan ahead of the much-anticipated T20I tri-nation series that also includes the hosts, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. The thrilling event is set to be played in Rawalpindi from November 18 to 29.
According to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the Zimbabwe squad, led by star all-rounder Sikandar Raza, will rest for a day before resuming practice sessions on Friday to gear up for the upcoming series.
Originally scheduled to start on November 17, the tournament was delayed by a day due to uncertainty surrounding Sri Lanka’s ongoing white-ball tour of Pakistan. The change was prompted after several Sri Lankan players expressed a desire to return home following a recent bomb blast incident in Islamabad.
In an official statement, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) confirmed that its management had received concerns from some players about security conditions.
However, the SLC assured its squad that strict security protocols were in place in coordination with the PCB and local law enforcement agencies to ensure player safety.
“Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) was informed by the team management that several members of the national team touring Pakistan have requested to return home, citing safety concerns,” the board’s statement read.
The SLC further clarified that any player choosing to return home despite these reassurances would be replaced, and their decision would undergo a formal review process.
Meanwhile, the ongoing Pakistan vs. Sri Lanka ODI series has also undergone minor scheduling adjustments. The final two matches, initially set earlier, will now be held in Rawalpindi on November 14 and 16, each postponed by a day.
The arrival of Zimbabwe adds excitement to the cricketing calendar, as fans eagerly await high-intensity T20 action between three competitive Asian and African sides.