Australia to play three Tests this summer (28 May 1998)

Thursday, May 28, 1998

Australia to play 3 Tests this summer

By Our Sports Reporter

KARACHI, May 27:

Australia's tour of Pakistan this summer will be divided into two legs with the Tests to be played in the first half and one-day internationals in the second half.

The Australians will arrive around Sept 20 and will first play three Tests before flying to Dhaka along with Pakistan for the nine-nation ICC Trophy. The Aussies then return for the three limited overs internationals.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has enquired from its associations as to which one was interested in hosting the warm-up games. Although the board has not finalised how many matches Australia will play before Tests, the authorities plan to give the tourists at least two matches.

The cricket board has offered the package to all its affiliated units. The package includes lodging and boarding, daily allowance and travelling allowance.

Although the board is not willing to reveal the details of the forthcoming tour, indications are that the visitors will open their Test tour from Karachi. The remaining two Tests will be played at Rawalpindi and Lahore.

Traditionally, Australia's last four tours have begun with the opener at Karachi. Greg Chappell's team played at the National Stadium in 1979-80, Kim Hughes' side started the series in 1982-83, Allan Border's 1988-89 tour began from Karachi and Mark Taylor's men in 1994-95.

Interestingly, Pakistan won each of the Test and went onto to win the series.

Tentatively, the Karachi Test is expected to be played between Sept 27 and Oct 1. The Rawalpindi Test between Oct 4 and Oct 8 and the final Test at Lahore between Oct 11 and Oct 15.

The Dhaka tournament is expected to start from Oct 26. The final itinerary of the ICC Trophy as well as Australia's tour of Pakistan will be finalised during the ICC meeting being held at the cricket headquarters at Lord's between June 8 and 14.

Source:: Dawn (https://dawn.com/)