Pakistan to host New Zealand twice during 2022-23 season

New Zealand are set to tour Pakistan twice in 2022-23. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed the development on Monday (December 20). The Blackcaps will first come to Pakistan in December-January 2022-23. Later they will yet again visit the country in April 2023 to play 10 white-ball games in order to make up for withdrawing from the Pakistan tour in September 2021.

On their first visit, New Zealand will play two Tests and three ODIs, which will be part of the World Test Championship (WTC) and World Cup Super League respectively. On their return to Pakistan in April, New Zealand will play five ODIs and as many T20Is. The schedule for the tours is yet to be finalised.

This news comes as a shot in the arm for PCB after New Zealand had canceled the tour earlier this year due to security reasons. PCB chairman Ramiz Raja had vouched that he will speak to NZC and work things out. Things slightly soured between both boards after NCZ released a statement that due to security issues they will not continue with the tour.

England, who were due to Pakistan in October 2021 also backed out. Since then, the PCB and Raja are trying to speak with both boards to return to play in Pakistan. The PCB chairman is happy that things with NZC have worked nicely. Raja also thanked Snedden and his board for showing support during this crunch time.

“I am pleased with the outcomes of our discussions and negotiations, and thank Martin Snedden and his board for their understanding and support,” said PCB Chairman Ramiz Raja, according to Cricbuzz. “This reflects the strong, cordial, and historic relations the two boards have and reconfirms Pakistan’s status as an important member of the cricket fraternity,” he added.