Zimbabwe has been declared as a substitute for Afghanistan in the forthcoming T20I Tri-Series in Pakistan. The series, originally intended to include Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, will now be played out between Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka, and host Pakistan, following Afghanistan’s withdrawal from participating in the tournament due to a tragic accident. The series will be played out between November 17 and November 29, with games arranged in Lahore and Rawalpindi.
Afghanistan Withdraws from Tri-Series Following Tragic Cross-Border Raid
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) withdrew from the tri-series following a cross-border raid, which claimed the lives of three local cricketers. The cricketers were on their way back home from a friendly match in Sharana, the capital of Paktika province, when they came under attack. The ACB was deeply saddened by the loss, terming it a great tragedy for Afghanistan’s sports.
Through a social media statement, the ACB confirmed the unfortunate demise of the players and termed the withdrawal from the tri-series as a sign of respect for the deceased.
Both the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the International Cricket Council (ICC) sent their condolences, following the ACB in mourning the loss. The ACB reiterated that this move was done out of respect and solidarity with the bereaved families.
Zimbabwe Filles Afghanistan’s Gap in the Tri-Series
With Afghanistan’s pulling out, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) swiftly announced that Zimbabwe would replace them in the future tri-series. The Pakistani national team will be accompanied by Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe in the T20I series, which can be expected to be an interesting contest.
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The series is scheduled to begin on the 17th of November, with Zimbabwe playing Pakistan in Rawalpindi. Two days later, Zimbabwe will also play Sri Lanka at the same venue, before the action moves to Lahore’s iconic Gaddafi Stadium for the rest of the games.
Schedule for Tri-Series in Pakistan
The tri-series will have a total of six T20I matches at different venues in Pakistan. The entire schedule is as follows:
November 17: Zimbabwe vs Pakistan – Rawalpindi
November 19: Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka – Rawalpindi
Remaining matches: All the remaining matches will be played at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
Why Zimbabwe’s Participation is Important for the Tri-Series
Zimbabwe’s addition to the tri-series brings an interesting factor to the tournament. With Sri Lanka established as a competitive T20 team and Pakistan a force to be reckoned with in the format, Zimbabwe’s addition guarantees a more varied and competitive tournament.
Zimbabwe’s recent T20I form has been impressive, and this tour will provide them with a chance to challenge themselves against two excellent teams in the subcontinent.
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