KARACHI, Mar 13 (Agencies): Pakistan's cricket board on Wednesday released an itinerary for New Zealand's five-match Twenty20 international tour next month, as both sides prepare for the World Cup in June.
The Black Caps will arrive in Islamabad on April 14 and play three matches in Rawalpindi on April 18, 20 and 21, with the last two scheduled for Lahore on April 25 and 27.
"We hope to have a competitive series which is a key part of our build-up for the World Cup," said Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) director of international cricket Usman Wahla.
Pakistan will also play two T20Is in Ireland and four in England in May, before flying to the international mega-event co-hosted by the USA and the West Indies.
The touring New Zealanders will be without key players in Pakistan, including Kane Williamson, Mitchell Santner, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Trent Boult, Devon Conway, Glenn Phillips and Lockie Ferguson as all will be featuring in the Indian Premier League.
This will be New Zealand's third visit to the country in the last 17 months. Previously, they had traveled to Pakistan in December 2022/January 2023 to feature in two Tests and three ODIs - part of ICC Men's Championship. Later that year in April, they travelled to Lahore, Rawalpindi and Karachi to feature in 10 white-ball matches.
Earlier this year, Pakistan toured New Zealand for a 5-match T20 series which they lost 4-1. Lahore was not chosen as a venue for the series as it would be hosting a women's T20I series between Pakistan and West Indies at around the same time. Notably, a PCB official had spoken about a possible New Zealand tour earlier this year.
PCB announces schedule for New Zealand T20 series
NZ to tour Pakistan for 3rd time in 2 years for 5 T20s in April
FE Team | Published: March 13, 2024 23:21:10
PCB announces schedule for New Zealand T20 series
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