The upcoming ODI series between Pakistan and New Zealand has been in the headlines for quite some time now, but not for the right reasons. The series schedule has been a point of concern for both teams, and it seems like it will undergo some more changes.
The original schedule had Pakistan and New Zealand playing three ODIs in Rawalpindi on September 17, 19, and 21. The series was then moved to Lahore, with the first ODI set to take place on September 25. However, according to recent reports, the schedule is set to change once again.
Series likely to shift to December
Sources close to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) suggest that the series is likely to be postponed until December due to a busy schedule for both teams. New Zealand is set to play a series against India, followed by the T20 World Cup, which begins in mid-October. Pakistan, on the other hand, is scheduled to play a series against Afghanistan, followed by the T20 World Cup.
The PCB and New Zealand Cricket (NZC) are reportedly in talks to reschedule the series, with December being the most likely month. However, the final decision is yet to be made.
The rescheduling of the series would be a blow to both teams, who were looking forward to playing some high-quality cricket. Pakistan has been in excellent form in the ODI format, having recently won a series against South Africa. The team would have been looking to continue their winning streak against New Zealand, who are also a formidable opponent.
An opportunity to prepare for WC 2023
New Zealand, on the other hand, would have been looking to fine-tune their ODI skills ahead of the T20 World Cup. The team is known for its ability to adapt to different conditions, and a series against Pakistan would have provided them with the perfect opportunity to prepare for the tournament.
The rescheduling of the series would also be a blow to cricket fans in Pakistan, who were eagerly awaiting the arrival of New Zealand. The country has been deprived of international cricket for several years due to security concerns, and the series against New Zealand was seen as a significant step forward for cricket in the country.
The PCB has been working tirelessly to convince other teams to tour Pakistan, and the successful hosting of the PSL and recent series against South Africa were seen as positive steps. The postponement of the series against New Zealand would be a setback for the board, who have been working hard to bring international cricket back to Pakistan.
Given the busy schedules of both teams, this seems like the most practical option. The PCB and NZC will need to work together to find a suitable time for the series, which will provide both teams with the opportunity to play some high-quality cricket. Cricket fans in Pakistan will have to wait a little longer to see their team in action, but the rescheduling of the series should not dampen their enthusiasm for the sport.
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