Follow UsAs widely anticipated, in line with the political rallies, the three-match ODI series between Australia and Pakistan have been shifted to Lahore from Rawalpindi. According to ESPNCricinfo reports, the political situation surrounding the current Prime Minister Imran Khan has forced the venue change.
Reports have mentioned that “the feverish political atmosphere” has led to Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), and the opposition Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), to bring massive number of people for their support, in Islamabad, which adjoins Rawalpindi.
"Due to political activities and scenario we have decided it would be better to have the matches in Lahore as there will be a lot of movement and activities in Islamabad and Pindi during the time frame the matches are scheduled," Federal Minister for Interior, Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed confirmed.
The reports added that the spot where the two parties are going to assemble would be less than two kilometres of the hotel where the two teams were expected to stay in the country. While the PCB have initially reluctant to change the venues, the circumstances in the country has now tied their hands to the new decision.
In Australia’s first visit to Pakistan since 1998, the visitors were in line for three ODIs and one T20I following the three-match Test series. While the venues of the fixtures are on the verge of changing, it is yet to be seen if there will be a change in the schedule.