The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced a crucial three-match ODI series against Afghanistan, which will take place in Sri Lanka as a preparation ahead of the Asia Cup. The series is set to be held in Hambantota and Colombo, with the final match concluding on August 26, just four days before the Asia Cup commences.
According to the PCB statement, these matches will serve as an ideal opportunity for Babar Azam’s side to fine-tune their combinations and strategies in preparation for the 50-over ACC Men’s Asia Cup.
ACB Chairman, Mr. Mirwais Ashraf, expressed confidence in the Afghanistan squad, anticipating an impressive performance during the series. He believes that the matches will act as a vital preparation for the highly-anticipated Men’s Asia Cup 2023 and the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023.
Afghanistan’s recent 2-1 series victory in Bangladesh has bolstered the team’s morale for the upcoming series against Pakistan. The ACB Chairman stated that their previous ODI assignment provided valuable experience and preparation for facing Pakistan in Sri Lanka.
The schedule for the series is as follows:
– 22 August: 1st ODI, Hambantota
– 24 August: 2nd ODI, Hambantota
– 26 August: 3rd ODI, Colombo
After the series, Pakistan will return to Multan to take on Nepal in the Asia Cup opener, while Afghanistan will travel to Lahore to face Bangladesh on September 3.
