England announce first tour of Pakistan for 16 years
Two Twenty20 fixtures will take place in Karachi in October 2021 ahead of the T20 World Cup
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Your support makes all the difference.England will make their first tour of Pakistan in 16 years when they play two Twenty20 fixtures in Karachi in October 2021.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced the news on Wednesday morning.
England are set to arrive in Karachi on 12 October, with T20 fixtures following on 14 and 15 October. Both teams will then travel to India on 16 October for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
The ECB confirmed the tour on Tuesday evening following an invite by the PCB last month that proposed a short tour in January, with scheduling issues for England forcing a delay of the visit.
Read more: ECB accused of vicious, systemic racism by former umpires
Pakistan toured England across August and September this year, competing in a series of Test and T20 matches.
England last toured Pakistan in 2005, playing three Test matches and five one-day internationals. There were further series between the sides in 2012 and 2015, but each was played in the United Arab Emirates.
Tom Harrison, ECB Chief Executive Officer, said: “This represents a significant moment for both nations.
“As was demonstrated this summer, we have a strong relationship with the PCB, and the ECB is delighted to be able to play our part in ensuring the safe return of international cricket to this wonderful nation of passionate cricket fans.
“As always, the safety and welfare of our players and staff will be paramount. We are working closing with the PCB to ensure all the necessary plans are in place, especially concerning the anticipated levels of security around the team, the proposed travel protocols and of course the situation regarding the fast-moving and ever-changing Covid-19 pandemic.
“The two-match series will serve as ideal preparation for the England team leading into an ICC Men’s T20 World Cup taking place in India during October and November.”
Wasim Khan, PCB Chief Executive, added: “The full-strength England squad will arrive at the backend of our home white-ball series against New Zealand. We also expect Australia to visit Pakistan for their FTP commitment in early 2022, with England returning for both Test and White Ball tours in the 2022/23 season.
“England’s visit to Pakistan for the 14 and 15 October 2021 T20Is will provide further lift to our passionate fans, both in Pakistan and across the globe. The nation has waited patiently for cricket to return sustainably to Pakistan and the 2021 tours by South Africa, New Zealand and England will only ensure international cricket is played uninterruptedly.”
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