Pakistan is scheduled to host New Zealand for a white-ball series which consists of a three-match ODI and a five-match T20I series slated to begin from 17 September which is also New Zealand’s first tour to Pakistan in 18 years.

While due to COVID-19 a lot of matches were held behind closed doors, what comes as good news for all the Pakistan cricket fans is that the upcoming limited-overs fixtures between Pakistan and New Zealand will see a 25% crowd.

“The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) has approved 25 percent crowd attendance for upcoming Pakistan versus New Zealand series matches. The decision means around 4,500 spectators will be able to attend the ODIs and approximately 5,500 spectators will be able to watch T20Is in Lahore,” the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said in a statement.

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The Kiwis will be arriving in Islamabad on September 11 and will be playing three ODIs at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on September 17, 19 and 21. The ODIs will be followed by five T20Is to be played at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on September 25, 26 and 29 as well as October 1 and 3.

As Pakistan hosted Zimbabwe and South Africa with no crowds allowed owing to the COVID-19 outbreak last year, the PCB chief executive Wasim Khan who was extremely happy with this decision welcomed the change.

“Spectators are the essence of any sport event as they create an ambience and atmosphere for the players to excel, perform and we hope the fans will enjoy,” Khan said.

After New Zealand, Pakistan will be hosting England for two T20Is on October 14 and 15 with both matches to be played in Rawalpindi. This will be England’s first visit to Pakistan since 2005.

(With AFP Inputs)