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ODI and Tri-Series schedule changed
BeNewz Report
ISLAMABAD: Zimbabwe’s national cricket team arrived in Islamabad late on Wednesday to participate in the tri-nation T20 series beginning on 18 November, with all matches scheduled to be played at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
The squad, led by Sikandar Raza, landed at Islamabad International Airport under tight security and was transported directly to the team hotel. Officials said the players will rest on the first day before beginning training in Rawalpindi. The arrival of Zimbabwe completes the lineup for the event, with Pakistan and Sri Lanka already in the country for the upcoming series.
The Pakistan Cricket Board earlier announced a revised schedule for the tournament, consolidating all fixtures in Rawalpindi from 18 to 29 November. The matches were originally planned across Lahore and Rawalpindi from 17 to 29 November, but the board shifted the entire event to a single venue, citing operational and logistical considerations. PCB officials said the decision was taken in consultation with the participating boards to ensure streamlined arrangements and enhanced security.
The tri-nation tournament comes alongside Pakistan’s ongoing commitments against Sri Lanka, for which the PCB has also rescheduled the remaining ODIs. The second ODI, initially set for 13 November, will now be played on 15 November, followed by the third ODI on 16 November, with both matches taking place in Rawalpindi. According to the board, the adjustments aim to reduce travel and provide better facilitation for players and support staff.
🛬 Sikandar Raza-led Zimbabwe squad arrives in Islamabad to take part in the T20I tri-series 🏏#PAKvZIM | #PAKvSL pic.twitter.com/qksgkf27Q0
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) November 12, 2025
International cricket in Pakistan has seen a steady revival in recent years, with major bilateral series and global events contributing to improved infrastructure and confidence among visiting teams. Rawalpindi has emerged as a reliable operational base, hosting several high-profile matches over the past two seasons. Security agencies and local administration maintain that the region offers stable conditions for international fixtures, strengthening the case for holding the entire tri-series at one venue.
Zimbabwe enters the series with a youthful squad assembled under a new coaching panel. The team views the event as an opportunity to build momentum ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup, using the competitive conditions in Pakistan to test emerging players. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, has been fielding a younger side as it works toward rebuilding after recent global tournaments. Pakistan’s T20 side has shown improved form in recent months, supported by a consistent domestic calendar and the Pakistan Super League’s role in developing emerging talent.
Analysts expect the tri-nation event to offer vital preparation for all three teams as they evaluate combinations and strategies ahead of next year’s global competitions. Playing the entire series at one venue is likely to provide continuity in conditions, helping squads adapt quickly to pitch behavior and game tempo.
The PCB said tickets for the tournament will go on sale soon, while a traffic and security plan for match days will be issued by the Rawalpindi administration. Additional security personnel will be deployed around the stadium, and shuttle services will be arranged to facilitate spectator access. Clean-up, lighting checks, and parking arrangements around the venue are expected to be completed before the tournament begins.
The tri-nation series marks another step in Pakistan’s expanding international cricket calendar and is expected to draw strong interest from fans. Officials believe the event will boost local economic activity, reinforce Pakistan’s hosting credentials, and further strengthen the country’s position as a consistent destination for international cricket.
