Pakistan set to host Test cricket after 10 years as Sri Lanka agree for two Tests
Sri Lankan Cricket (SLC) has agreed for its Test team to play a two-match series against in Pakistan in December, as part of the ongoing World Test Championship. The first Test will be played in Rawalpindi starting December 11, while the second one will be held in Karachi from December 19.
The announcement comes as a breath of fresh air for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) that has been trying to restore Test cricket normalcy in Pakistan for years. The last time Pakistan played a Test at home was in 2009 against Sri Lanka at Lahore. However, the series was marred by a shocking terror attack on the Sri Lankan team’s bus that changed the landscape of international cricket in the country. Pakistan did not play a single home Test in this period.
Sri Lanka satisfied with security measures
“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,” SLC chief executive Ashley de Silva 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.”
In September-October this year, a second-string Sri Lankan side visited Pakistan for a limited-overs series. While Pakistan wrapped up the ODIs, Sri Lanka whitewashed the hosts in the T20I series. The go-ahead to come back and play Test cricket in Pakistan was given after SLC was convinced about the security measures put in place. Originally, Sri Lanka were slated to play the Test series in October and then return for the limited-overs leg in December. But the swap was made so that the tourists could asses the situation first.
“Fabulous news for Pakistan”
PCB Director Zakir Khan welcomed Sri Lanka’s decision to return to their nation, saying there will be strict security provisions put in place for the visiting team.
“This is fabulous news for Pakistan and its reputation of being as safe and secure as any other country in the world. 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 the regular resumption of international cricket, and help in its endeavours of attracting new audiences and the younger generation,” Khan said.
“Now that the itinerary has been confirmed, we will shift our focus on series preparations to ensure we deliver arrangements as per our very high standards. This series is part of our cricket celebrations and we will leave no stone unturned in putting up a show which is a memorable one for the players, officials, fans and media,” he added.
