In a move that is set to excite cricket fans around the world, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has agreed to a proposal from New Zealand Cricket (NZC) for a white-ball series in January 2024, immediately after the completion of their tour of Australia. The series comes as both teams have no international commitments during that period and serves as valuable preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup in 2024, set to be held in the United States of America (USA).
The NZC approached the PCB last month with the suggestion of a white-ball series, and talks are currently underway between the two boards to finalize the series schedule. With the Pakistan team scheduled to play a Test series against Australia starting on December 14, the series will provide an excellent opportunity for the team to transition from the longer format to the white-ball games.
The proposed series, likely to consist of either a five-match T20I or a three-match ODI series, is eagerly awaited by cricket enthusiasts. Both teams recently concluded a comprehensive series in Pakistan, which included a total of eight ODIs, five T20Is, and three Tests in two phases. The Test series ended in a draw, while the visitors claimed victory in the ODI series. The T20I series ended in a thrilling draw, with one match being abandoned due to rain. The home side emerged victorious in the ODI series, further highlighting their prowess in the limited-overs format.
This series holds particular significance for the Pakistani team, as they have had recent success on New Zealand soil. During their last visit, Pakistan won a tri-series involving New Zealand and Bangladesh in October of the previous year, just before the T20 World Cup. Led by captain Babar Azam, the team showcased their talent and emerged as the triumphant champions, defeating New Zealand by five wickets in the final.
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The upcoming white-ball series in New Zealand provides an opportunity for both teams to continue their rivalry and test their skills against each other once again. The Pakistan team’s strong performances in recent series have positioned them as formidable opponents, and they will aim to build on their success in the white-ball format. New Zealand, on the other hand, will be eager to bounce back after their previous defeat and showcase their prowess on home soil.
The series is likely to commence in the second week of January, allowing sufficient time for the Pakistan team to recover from their demanding tour of Australia and acclimatize to the conditions in New Zealand. The NZC has offered to host the series after the conclusion of the Pakistan team’s tour of Australia, with the final Test match scheduled to end on January 7.
Cricket enthusiasts can expect an intense battle between the two teams as they vie for supremacy in the white-ball format. The upcoming series promises to deliver thrilling encounters, filled with memorable performances and nail-biting finishes. Fans can look forward to witnessing the skills of top-class players such as Babar Azam, who has consistently performed at the highest level, along with other key players from both teams who will undoubtedly leave their mark on the series.
As the cricket boards continue discussions to finalize the schedule, anticipation builds among fans worldwide. The prospect of witnessing an exciting white-ball series, immediately following the Pakistan team’s tour of Australia, has garnered significant attention. Both teams will be eager to showcase their talent and make a statement ahead of the T20 World Cup in 2024. With the series set to be held in New Zealand, renowned for its picturesque grounds and passionate cricket fans, the stage is set for a captivating contest that will leave a lasting impression on the cricketing world.
