Test cricket is to return to Pakistan after a decade, with Sri Lanka to play a two-Test series there in December.
Sri Lanka visited Pakistan in October to play three ODIs and three T20Is, although the original schedule had outlined a Test series to be played then, with the white-ball leg to be held in December. According to a PCB statement, “the matches were swapped to provide them [Sri Lanka] the opportunity to assess the situation before deciding on the Test venues”.
The last Test to be held in Pakistan was in March 2009, when Sri Lanka visited Lahore. The match was abandoned after the Sri Lanka team bus was attacked by terrorists on the way to the ground. Most of Pakistan’s ‘home’ matches have since been played in the UAE.
The sides will now contest two Tests as part of the World Test Championship, with the first to be played at Pindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi from December 11 and the second to begin at National Stadium in Karachi on December 19.
Big news!
Test cricket will return to Pakistan after 10 years, with Sri Lanka set to visit next month for a two-Test series!
? #PAKVSL pic.twitter.com/CqVYYyionR
— Wisden (@WisdenCricket) November 14, 2019
“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,” Ashley de Silva, the SLC chief executive, said.
“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.”
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“This is a fabulous news for Pakistan cricket and its reputation of being as safe and secure as any other country in the world,” PCB director Zakir Khan said.
“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.”
