PCB begs Zimbabwe to join Tri-series after Pakistan kills Afghanistan cricketers

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) appeared unfazed by Afghanistan’s withdrawal from the upcoming tri-nation series with Sri Lanka. Notably, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) pulled out of the tournament in protest against Pakistan’s recent airstrikes that killed ten people, including three Afghan cricketers.

Pakistan violated the 48-hour ceasefire on Friday evening by launching fresh airstrikes inside Afghan territory. The attacks killed several people, including three local cricketers. In response, the ACB condoled their deaths and announced that the team withdrew from the upcoming tri-nation series in Pakistan.

Rashid Khan Condemns Pakistan’s Attacks on Afghan Civilians

Afghanistan’s T20I captain Rashid Khan condemned Pakistan’s airstrikes, describing them as “barbaric and immoral.” Teammates Mohammad Nabi, Fazalhaq Farooqi, and Gulbadin Naib also offered heartfelt condolences over the deaths of three Afghan cricketers.

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The tri-series would have marked Afghanistan’s first multi-nation tournament on Pakistani soil. The two sides had previously faced each other in a tri-series in the UAE before the Asia Cup 2025.

Afghanistan have not played any bilateral series against Pakistan since attaining Test status. However, prior to ICC recognition, their A teams frequently toured Pakistan, where several Afghan players also trained. Pakistan had even allowed Afghan cricketers to participate in its domestic competitions.

Pakistan Cricket Board Exploring Alternatives to Fill Afghanistan's Spot

According to news agency PTI, the board is exploring alternatives to fill Afghanistan’s spot in the upcoming tri-series. While associate nations like Nepal and the UAE are being considered, the PCB’s preference is to include another Test-playing team. Sri Lanka will remain part of the tournament.

The report added that the tri-series will go ahead as scheduled from November 17, with an announcement regarding the replacement team expected soon.

“The Tri-Series will progress as scheduled even after Afghanistan’s withdrawal. We are looking at a replacement team and once finalised, the announcement will be made. The Tri-Series features a third team in Sri Lanka so it is on from 17th November," a senior PCB official said.

Zimbabwe Likely to Replace Afghanistan in Tri-Series in Pakistan

The Pakistan Cricket Board has yet to issue an official response following Afghanistan’s decision to pull out of the upcoming tri-nation series. It remains to be seen whether the event will continue as a bilateral contest between Pakistan and Sri Lanka or be postponed.

According to Geo News, Zimbabwe could replace Afghanistan in the series. Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have persisted for some time. Authorities had to separate supporters from both nations to prevent clashes during a tri-series in Sharjah.

Meanwhile, Pakistan are also set to host Sri Lanka in a three-match T20I series from November 11 to 15, which will serve as an extra opportunity for preparation ahead of their 2026 T20 World Cup, set to be played in India and Sri Lanka.

Australia, England, and South Africa will have international commitments. Australia and England are set to contest the Ashes, while South Africa will tour India for a multi-format series.

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