Australia wants Pak ODI series closer to T20 WC

Lahore, May 6 (ANI): The Chief Operating Officer of Pakistan Cricket Board has said that the Australia cricket board has asked the PCB to schedule the ODI series between the two countries closer to the ICC Twenty20 World Cup this year, scheduled to start in Sri Lanka from September 18.

"Since the series with Australia is also being held in Sri Lanka both countries feel it would be best for the teams if they play closer to the World Cup," the Daily Times quoted COO Subhan Ahmad, as saying.

Since Australia has refused to tour Pakistan because of security concerns, Pakistan has scheduled its 'home' ODI series in Sri Lanka. The series includes five ODIs and three T20 matches.

"The tentative itinerary for the series has been prepared but it will be finalised when our director of International Cricket, Intikhab Alam visits Sri Lanka next week to see arrangements for the series and the venues," Ahmed said.

He said tentatively the series would begin around the middle of August and end around September 6 or 7 so that both teams can remain in Sri Lanka and have a rest before the World Cup.

Pakistan is also due to tour Sri Lanka from May 29 to play three Tests, five ODIs and two T20 matches. (ANI)