The white ball segment of Australia’s tour in Pakistan will be moved from Rawalpindi to Lahore to avoid clashing with large political protests expected in the capital city of Islamabad, which adjoins Rawalpindi.
Both the ruling political party (PTI), led by Imran Khan, and the opposition party (PDM) are planning gatherings and marches that could swell to more than a million people in the capital from March 23rd, effectively shutting down the city.
While the three ODIs and one-off T20I were scheduled to be played in Rawalpindi, the hotel used by both the Australian and Pakistan teams is close by the government buildings and public areas expected to be at the centre of the protests.
The three ODIs were scheduled for March 29, March 31 and April 2, followed by the T20I on April 5.
It is not yet clear if the dates will be changed for the new venue in Lahore, where both squads are currently preparing for the third and final match of the Test series.
It’s understood the PCB was reluctant to switch venues but the likely disruption to the roads between the hotel and Pindi Stadium was a key factor in forcing the decision after an advisory was issued by Pakistan’s Interior Ministry.
The Australians have been granted the highest level of security throughout the tour, which involves shutting down the roads to all traffic while the teams are travelling to and from venues.
Dates for the white ball series are expected to be confirmed within the next few days.
