Cricket Australia (CA) has sent a team to Lahore to evaluate security plans ahead of its upcoming three-match T20 series against Pakistan in January. An independent security expert and a representative of the Australian Cricketers’ Association will visit match venues and discuss with local authorities.
Australia is set to tour Pakistan for a two-part white-ball tour early next year. The initial phase includes a three-match T20I series in January. While Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has not formally revealed the schedule or venues. It was reported that Lahore is likely to host all three matches of the series.
Cricket Australia delegation set to assess preparations in Lahore ahead of T20I series
According to a report in Times of India, the Cricket Australia delegation will closely review all the arrangements in Lahore during its visit.
He will inspect Gaddafi Stadium, LCCA Ground and team hotel. He is also expected to meet PCB officials and local security officials to finalize security plans for the tour.
“During their visit, the CA delegation will review the arrangements at the team hotel as well as inspect the facilities at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium and the LCCA Ground. They will also meet PCB officials, as well as government and security officials, to discuss comprehensive plans for the tour,” the report said.
Australia may shift ODI series against Pakistan to a later window
Australia will tour Pakistan again in March for a three-match ODI series. However, the series is now likely to be shifted to a later window due to the 2027 World Cup cycle.
The report said Australian High Commission officials recently met PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi to review security matters ahead of the trip.
“In addition, Australian High Commission officials recently met PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi – who also serves as Pakistan’s federal interior minister – to discuss the upcoming tour,” the report said.
The discussion comes after reports that Sri Lankan players were urged to stay put and complete their white-ball series following a suicide blast in Islamabad last month, with some of them requesting to return home early.
Australia tour marks return of regular tours to Pakistan
Australia’s visit is part of their effort to resume regular cricket tours in Pakistan after several years of security concerns. In recent seasons, teams like England and New Zealand have toured safely, which has helped build confidence in Pakistan’s system.
The PCB is confident of hosting Australia and says all planning is being done in collaboration with Cricket Australia to ensure the series is safe and well managed. Fans are waiting for the final schedule, which will be confirmed after the CA team completes its security review.
The three-match T20 series is expected to strengthen relations between the two countries, increase international interest in Pakistan cricket and give fans a chance to enjoy top-class matches on home soil again.
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