Zim-Pakistan series aborted

Sports Reporter

JUST when they were celebrating the end to a long-awaited return to action, the Lady Chevrons have been dealt a major blow following the pre-mature end of their three ODI series and as many T20 games against Pakistan.

This follows an announcement by Emirates Airlines on the suspension of flights to Zimbabwe on Tuesday, which forced the Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) and their Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) counterparts to mutually agree to terminate the on-going series between the two women’s national teams which was underway at Harare Sports Club.

For the Lady Chevrons, this is a major setback as the team was looking forward to the rest of the series after they went down to Pakistan by 178 runs in the first ODI at Harare Sports Club on Tuesday. This was the home side’s first international game in almost two years.

“It is unfortunate that the Pakistani team have had to cut short their stay in Zimbabwe as a precautionary move after some unforeseen air travel complications arose, but their concern is understandable,” said ZC managing director, Givemore Makoni.

PCB chief executive, Wasim Khan, said: “It has been a difficult decision considering Zimbabwe Cricket had put in place excellent arrangements for the series.

“But the decision by Emirates Airlines to suspend all flights to and from Harare from February 13 to 28 has meant that we have to bring the squad back in the next 24 hours.

“We thank Zimbabwe Cricket for their understanding and support, and hope to return at some stage to complete this tour.”

Both Zimbabwe and Pakistan were using the now abandoned tour as part of their preparations for the ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier 2021, a 10-team tournament that will be held in June and July.

The top three teams from that qualifying event will progress to the 50-over ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2022 in New Zealand.