Lahore: Pakistan-Australia T20I series schedule announced

WEB DESK: The schedule for the Pakistan-Australia T20 International series has been announced, with Australia set to tour Pakistan later this month for a three-match contest, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed.

All three matches will be played at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, with the opening T20I scheduled for January 29, followed by the second on January 31 and the third on February 1.

Match timings and team arrival

The toss for each match will take place at 5:30pm, with play set to begin at 6pm. The Australian cricket team is expected to arrive in Lahore on Wednesday, January 28.

Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan said he would be unable to feature in the remaining matches of the Big Bash League due to his commitments with the national side ahead of the series.

Key preparation ahead of T20 World Cup

The series is seen as a crucial preparatory assignment for both teams ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 next month. Pakistan have been placed in Group A of the tournament, while Australia will compete in Group B.

Australia’s third Pakistan tour since 2022

This will be Australia’s third tour of Pakistan since March 2022. During their 2022 visit, Australia played a Test series, three One-Day Internationals and a T20I. The Australian side also featured in three matches of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which were held in Pakistan.

PCB welcomes Australia

PCB Chief Operating Officer Salman Naseer said the board was excited to host Australia for the three-match T20I series, calling it an excellent way to begin the year for Pakistani cricket fans.

He added that since March 2022, Australia have already played a Test, five ODIs and a T20I at Gaddafi Stadium, making the venue a familiar one for the visiting side.