The Pakistan Tour of Sri Lanka 2023 promises thrilling cricket matches as the two teams prepare to battle it out on the field. The recently revealed FTP (Future Tours Program) ensures an extensive lineup of international cricket, with Pakistan scheduled to play 238 days of competitive cricket over the next four years. This article provides detailed insights into the tour, including the schedule, squads, and the significance of these matches in the context of the ICC World Test Championship.

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Pakistan Tour of Sri Lanka 2023: Schedule, Squads, and Exciting Cricket Matches Detail

The Pakistan Tour of Sri Lanka 2023 features two highly anticipated Test matches. The first Test will be held from July 16 to July 20 at the iconic Galle International Cricket Stadium, while the second Test will take place from July 24 to July 28 at the R. Premed's International Cricket Stadium in Colombo. These matches are part of the ICC World Test Championship, an event that adds tremendous importance to each bilateral series and offers an immersive cricketing experience for fans.

Pakistan's Arrival and Squad

The Pakistan team's journey begins with a seven-day training camp at the Pindi Cricket Stadium in Islamabad, starting on June 25. On July 9, the team will depart for Sri Lanka, fully prepared to take on their opponents. The Pakistan Test squad for the Sri Lanka series has been announced on June 17, 2023 and the players details are:

  • Babar Azam (c)
  • Mohammad Rizwan (vc & wk)
  • Aamir Jamal
  • Abdullah Shafique
  • Abrar Ahmed
  • Hasan Ali
  • Imam-ul-Haq
  • Mohammad Huraira
  • Mohammad Nawaz
  • Naseem Shah
  • Noman Ali
  • Salman Ali Agha
  • Sarfaraz Ahmed (wk)
  • Saud Shakeel
  • Shaheen Afridi
  • Shan Masood

Sri Lanka's Squad

Sri Lanka, the hosting nation, boasts a talented squad ready to showcase their skills. Led by captain Dimuth Karunaratne, the team comprises players like Angelo Mathews, Niroshan Dickwella, and Kamindu Mendis, who are expected to play pivotal roles in the series. The Sri Lankan squad brings a mix of experience and promising talent, making the matches even more captivating for fans.

Match Prediction and Exciting Cricket Events

With a future tour program spanning 238 days of international cricket, the Pakistan Cricket Board has crafted an engaging lineup for cricket enthusiasts. The Future Tours Program for 2023-2027 includes 56 Twenty20 Internationals, 47 One-Day Internationals, and 27 ICC World Test Championship events. Moreover, Pakistan will host the ACC 50-over Asia Cup and the ICC Champions Trophy during this period. The number of matches may increase based on Pakistan's performance in ICC and ACC competitions, along with the three-nation ODI series in 2025 to 2026.

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Importance of the ICC World Test Championship

The majority of Test matches scheduled under the FTP are directly linked to the ICC World Test Championship. This prestigious tournament spans from 2023 to 2025 and encompasses the matches played during this series. The ICC's emphasis on the World Test Championship highlights the significance of bilateral cricket, ensuring that each tour and game holds tremendous value for the participating member nations.

Progress of the FTP 2023-2027

The recently announced FTP 2023-2027 is nearing completion, with approximately 80% of the schedule finalized. A comprehensive discussion on this matter is set to take place during the ICC summit of member nations in Birmingham on July 25 and 26. Pakistan's FTP includes 27 series, comprising 12 home contests and 15 international visits. Notably, Pakistan is scheduled to compete against Bangladesh, England, the Netherlands, South Africa, Afghanistan, the West Indies, Zimbabwe, Ireland, and New Zealand. However, no series have been planned with India during this cycle.

Packed Cricket Schedule

The Pakistan cricket schedule for 2022 is already brimming with exciting events. From the PSL (Pakistan Super League) to the ICC T20 World Cup and various ODI, T20, and Test series, fans have much to anticipate. The Pakistan Cricket team's domestic and international itinerary for 2022, including the PSL, T20 World Cup, and ICC bilateral series, is readily available for enthusiasts seeking detailed information.

Conclusion

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The upcoming Pakistan Tour of Sri Lanka in 2023, under the ICC Men's Future Tours Program, promises captivating cricket matches. With the FTP announcement ensuring the completion of all bilateral series across formats, cricket fans can eagerly anticipate a thrilling contest between Pakistan and Sri Lanka. This collaborative effort by Full Members, supported by the ICC, solidifies the predictability and significance of cricket matches.

Additionally, Sri Lanka has plans to host Afghanistan and England in separate series, further enhancing the cricketing experience for fans. Reflecting on Pakistan's previous successful tour to Sri Lanka in 2015, expectations soar for another riveting clash between the two teams. The Pakistan National Cricket Team's arrival in Sri Lanka on July 6 sets the stage for an exhilarating three-day warm-up match beginning on July 11 in Colombo.

FAQs

Q. What is the schedule for the Pakistan Tour of Sri Lanka 2023?

A. The tour consists of two Test matches scheduled from July 16 to July 20 and from July 24 to July 28.

Q. How important are these matches in the context of the ICC World Test Championship?

A. These matches hold great significance as they contribute to the ICC World Test Championship, a prestigious tournament spanning from 2023 to 2025.

Q. How many series are included in Pakistan's FTP 2023-2027?

A. Pakistan's FTP comprises 27 series, including 12 home contests and 15 international visits.

Q. Which players are part of Pakistan's squad for the tour?

A. Star players such as Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Afridi, and Yasir Shah are included in Pakistan's squad.

Q. Who are the key players in Sri Lanka's squad?

A. Sri Lanka's squad is led by captain Dimuth Karunaratne and features players like Angelo Mathews, Niroshan Dickwella, and Kamindu Mendis.