PCB unveils schedule for Australia series

KARACHI: Pakistan on Friday announced a revamped series against Australia in October this year, reducing their Test series to two matches to accommodate three one-day internationals. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had asked Cricket Australia to drop a Test and play three one-day internationals, with a view to prepare for next year's World Cup. Australia and New Zealand will host next year's tournament. PCB said the series will be played in the United Arab Emirates from October 3. Pakistan have been forced to play their home series at neutral venues since militants attacked the Sri Lankan team in Lahore in 2009. The series begins with a one off T20 match in Dubai (October 3), followed by three ODIs in Abu Dhabi (October 5), Sharjah (October 8) and Dubai (October 10), the PCB said. Australia will play the Pakistan “A” team in a four-day warm up match in Sharjah (October 13-16) which will be followed by the two Tests. The first Test will be played in Dubai (October 20-24) and the second in Abu Dhabi Oct 28- Nov 1). Australia have not toured Pakistan over security fears since 1998. Itinerary: Sep 29 - Teams Arrive October 3 - T20 in Dubai October 5 - 1st one-day international in Abu Dhabi October 8 - 2nd one-day in Sharjah October 10 - 3rd one-day in Dubai October 13- 16 - 4day warm-up match between Australia v Pakistan “A” in Sharjah October 20-24 - 1st Test in Dubai October 28-November 1 - 2nd Test in Abu Dhabi.