Ahead of their departure for the Australia tour, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi urged white-ball captain Muhammad Rizwan and vice-captain Salman Agha to meet the nation’s high expectations for a strong performance. In a meeting held in Lahore on Tuesday, Naqvi extended his best wishes to both leaders of the Green Shirts, who are preparing for the upcoming ODI and T20I series in Australia, followed by matches in Zimbabwe.
“Leading the white-ball team is an honour, and the nation expects good performance under your leadership in the Australia and Zimbabwe series,” said Naqvi, per an official PCB statement. He also lauded the team’s talent and professionalism, expressing confidence in their ability to shine on the global stage. Rizwan responded by affirming the team’s commitment, vowing to meet the expectations of fans and the nation.
The series in Australia will feature three ODIs and three T20Is, with the first match kicking off at Melbourne Cricket Ground on November 4. Afterward, the team will head to Zimbabwe, where they are set to play an identical number of ODIs and T20Is, beginning November 24 in Bulawayo.
Naqvi emphasized the importance of unity and perseverance, adding, “If the team performs as a team, no one can beat you.” Rizwan and Salman expressed gratitude for the chairman’s support, promising to lead the team with dedication. PCB’s Chief Operating Officer Salman Naseer was also present at the meeting.
Australia Tour Schedule:
- ODIs:
- November 4 — MCG, Melbourne
- November 8 — Adelaide Oval, Adelaide
- November 10 — Perth Stadium, Perth
- T20Is:
- November 14 — The Gabba, Brisbane
- November 16 — SCG, Sydney
- November 18 — Bellerive Oval, Hobart
Zimbabwe Tour Schedule:
- ODIs:
- November 24 — Bulawayo
- November 26 — Bulawayo
- November 28 — Bulawayo
- T20Is:
- December 1 — Bulawayo
- December 3 — Bulawayo
- December 5 — Bulawayo