Zimbabwe to replace Afghanistan in Pakistan's T20I tri-series
What's the story
Zimbabwe will replace Afghanistan in the upcoming T20I tri-series in Pakistan. The series, which also features Sri Lanka, is scheduled to take place from November 17 to 29 at Lahore and Rawalpindi. Earlier on Saturday, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) announced its withdrawal from the tournament after three local cricketers were killed in a cross-border attack in Paktika province.
Tragic incident
ACB withdraws from the series
The ACB expressed its deep sorrow over the tragic loss of three local cricketers who were returning home from a "friendly" match in Sharana, Paktika province's capital. The board said it was a huge loss for Afghanistan's sports community and athletes. Describing the incident as "tragic," the ACB announced its decision to withdraw from the upcoming Tri-Nation T20I Series as a gesture of respect for the victims.
Series continuation
Tri-series to go ahead as planned
Despite Afghanistan's withdrawal, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that the tri-series will go ahead as planned. The PCB said it was informed earlier of "Afghanistan's inability" to participate in the tri-series. Zimbabwe will take on hosts Pakistan in Rawalpindi before facing Sri Lanka at the same venue two days later. All other matches are scheduled to be played at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium.
Global reaction
ICC, BCCI extend condolences
The International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have also expressed their condolences over the loss of life. The ICC condemned the act of violence that claimed three promising cricketers' lives, while BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia extended his sympathies to Afghanistan's cricketing community.