Pakistan to again host Test cricket after 10 year gap

Pakistan is set to again host Test cricket - after a decade-long drought - with the national team to host a two-Test home series against Sri Lanka next month.

The Pakistan Cricket Board announced yesterday (14th November) announced that the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium and Karachi’s National Stadium will host the two Test, set to begin on 11th and 19th December respectively.

The tour is a consequence of the successful recent Sri Lankan tour in September-October, with the touring team playing three One Day Internationals and three T20Is.

Announcing the Tests, Pakistan Cricket Board Director - International Cricket, Zakir Khan stated "this is a fabulous news for Pakistan cricket and its reputation of being as safe and secure as any other country in the world.

"We are thankful to Sri Lanka Cricket for agreeing to send their team for the longer version of the game, which will contribute significantly in the PCB’s efforts and drive for regular resumption of international cricket, and help in its endeavours of attracting new audiences and younger generation.

“Now that the itinerary has been confirmed, we will shift our focus on series preparations to ensure we deliver arrangements as per our very high standards. This series is part of our cricket celebrations and we will leave no stone unturned in putting up a show which is a memorable one for the players, officials, fans and media.”

Pakistan’s hosting of Test matches ended in 2009 following a terror attack on the Sri Lankan team bus.

Since then, while other teams have visited the country for limited-overs assignments, it has played its ‘home’ Test matches in the United Arab Emirates.

Looking forward to the series, Sri Lanka Cricket Chief Executive, Ashley de Silva stated “we also believe all cricket playing countries should host international cricket at home and in this relation we are happy to play our part in complete resumption of international cricket in Pakistan, which not only has a proud history but has been one of our biggest supporters in our early days as a cricket nation."

“I anticipate, like in the past, these two Tests will be exciting and competitive, and the fans will thoroughly enjoy the quality of cricket that will be on display.”

Image: The Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.