Lahore, Oct 18 – The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that the upcoming tri-nation T20 International series will take place as scheduled from November 17 to 29 in Lahore, despite Afghanistan's withdrawal. The tournament was originally set to feature Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan.

A senior PCB official stated, "The Tri-Series will progress as scheduled even after Afghanistan's withdrawal. We are looking at a replacement team and once finalised, the announcement will be made. The Tri-Series features a third team in Sri Lanka so it is on from 17th November."

Afghanistan's decision to pull out follows claims by the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) that three cricketers died due to Pakistani airstrikes in Paktika province. This incident has heightened tensions between the two nations.

The PCB is currently in discussions with various cricket boards to identify a suitable replacement for Afghanistan. While they are considering associate member teams like Nepal and the UAE, their priority is to secure a Test-playing nation to join the series.

In addition to the tri-series, Pakistan will host Sri Lanka for a three-match bilateral T20 series from November 11 to 15. The relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan cricket has been strained, with no bilateral series occurring since Afghanistan gained Test status. Previously, Afghan A teams visited Pakistan, and some Afghan players participated in domestic events there.

During a recent tri-series in Sharjah, which included the UAE, spectators from both countries were seated separately to avoid potential conflicts. The PCB remains committed to ensuring the tri-series proceeds smoothly, emphasizing its importance in Pakistan's cricket calendar.