Uncertainty looms over the upcoming three-match ODI series between Afghanistan and Pakistan to be played in Sri Lanka from September 1 after the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan almost 20 years after being ousted by US troops.
The ODI series, which is part of the inaugural 2020–23 ICC Cricket World Cup Super League, is scheduled to be played at the Mahinda Rajapaksa Stadium in Hambantota between September 1 and 5 behind closed doors.
But the current situation in Afghanistan has put doubts over the ODI series; however, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has confirmed that it will go ahead with arrangements to host the series, but can’t guarantee whether the ODI series will start on September 1 after the Taliban came into power.
An international cricket official revealed on condition of anonymity, “Efforts are being made to check their whereabouts.”
SLC secretary Mohan de Silva told AFP: “We have told them that we are ready to host the tournament. All the preparations are underway. But, given the current situation in Kabul, we don't know if they will be able to go ahead. We are awaiting a response from them.”
Notably, Afghanistan and Pakistan both teams should be in Sri Lanka by next week to begin the ODI matches in September as planned.
(With AFP Inputs)
