Three-match series to be played entirely in Lahore, confirms PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi
LAHORE – After extensive discussions and negotiations, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) have reached an agreement confirming that the Bangladesh national team will tour Pakistan for a three-match T20 International series.
The decision was finalised during a high-level meeting in Dubai between PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, BCB Chairman Nazmul Abedin, and BCB President Faruque Ahmed. The original plan, which included five T20Is, was revised to three matches due to logistical considerations and security factors.
As per the updated agreement, all three matches will be held in Lahore, solidifying the city’s status as a central hub for Pakistan’s international cricket fixtures.
Naqvi Thanks BCB for Support
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed his appreciation for the BCB’s cooperation and commitment, stating,
“We are grateful to the Bangladesh Cricket Board for their continued support and for agreeing to this important series. Their willingness to play in Pakistan further strengthens our international cricket ties and reinforces Pakistan’s status as a safe and welcoming venue for global cricket.”
Naqvi emphasized the importance of such bilateral series in enhancing cricketing relations between the two nations and contributing to Pakistan’s growing international cricket calendar.
Leadership and Squad Details
Bangladesh will be led by seasoned wicketkeeper-batter Litton Das, who took over T20I captaincy earlier this year following the resignation of Najmul Hossain Shanto. Supporting him in leadership will be off-spinner Mahedi Hasan, who has been appointed vice-captain for both the UAE and Pakistan tours.
This leadership reshuffle reflects the BCB’s strategy to inject new energy and direction into the national side as it prepares for a busy international calendar.
Series Faced Earlier Uncertainty
The series had been surrounded by uncertainty in recent weeks due to a combination of regional geopolitical tensions and domestic scheduling issues. The postponement of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) midway through its season, coupled with strained India-Pakistan relations, had created hurdles for the original tour plan.
Bangladesh was initially scheduled to arrive in Pakistan on May 21 in two separate groups, with the first T20I originally set to be played in Faisalabad on May 25 as part of a five-match series. However, adjustments were made following comprehensive consultations between the two boards, and the revised plan will now see all three matches hosted in Lahore.
A Boost for Pakistan’s Home Cricket
The confirmation of this tour is a positive development for Pakistan cricket, which has made significant efforts in recent years to restore full-fledged international fixtures at home. Hosting Bangladesh further validates the PCB’s efforts to provide a secure and well-managed environment for visiting teams.
With international cricket slowly returning to Pakistan in recent years, the Bangladesh series will add momentum to the country’s broader efforts to re-establish itself as a reliable host for major bilateral and multilateral events.
Fixtures and Dates to be Announced Soon
While the exact match dates are yet to be announced, PCB officials have confirmed that the final schedule will be released in the coming days. All matches will take place at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, which is expected to host a strong local turnout.
The series is expected to play a crucial role for both sides as they prepare for upcoming international tournaments, including the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
Stay tuned for the official fixture list and squad announcements from both cricket boards.
