Tri-series future uncertain amid cross-border conflict
A cloud of uncertainty now surrounds the Pakistan-Afghanistan-Sri Lanka T20I tri-series, originally scheduled to be played in Pakistan from November 17 to 29, following a fresh wave of military conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
According to multiple reports, tensions escalated after airstrikes around Kabul and retaliatory border clashes, which reportedly resulted in casualties on both sides. With diplomatic relations strained and regional instability mounting, Afghanistan’s participation in the series has come under serious doubt.
In light of the developments, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi has reportedly approached the International Cricket Council (ICC) to begin planning for potential alternatives.
“The PCB chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, has asked the International Cricket Council to start working on an alternate plan as he wants the Tri-Series to go ahead.”
— a source said, quoted by news agency PTI in reporting on the PCB’s planning for the Tri-Series
While Pakistan remains committed to hosting the event, officials acknowledge that the situation may necessitate a revised format or replacement opposition, should Afghanistan formally withdraw.
Contingency planning extends beyond November
Beyond the tri-series, the PCB has already laid out a series of additional bilateral engagements, including a three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka from November 11 to 15 — just days before the start of the tri-series. Talks are also underway between the PCB and Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) for another T20I series in Colombo between January 1 and 10.
However, the proposed January window could ignite new scheduling tensions. The Big Bash League (BBL), running concurrently, features several Pakistani stars including Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Hasan Ali, Haris Rauf, and Hassan Khan — many of whom are set to make their BBL debuts this season.
The overlap has raised concerns within Cricket Australia (CA), which had secured these players based on prior availability assurances. PCB officials now face the challenge of balancing national duties and international league commitments.
“Obviously if the series with Sri Lanka is finalised, then either the selectors play without these players or the duration of their NOCs will have to be reconsidered by the PCB, meaning a disagreement with Cricket Australia.”
— the source said, as quoted by the Times of India
According to reports, CA has reached out to the PCB in light of the uncertainty, with franchises having invested heavily in promotional campaigns built around the participation of Pakistani stars.
Naqvi in spotlight over Asia Cup fallout
This latest turbulence comes at a time when Mohsin Naqvi is already under pressure after the trophy presentation controversy at the Asia Cup 2025. Naqvi, who also serves as Interior Minister of Pakistan and head of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), is at the center of a diplomatic stand-off after reportedly holding on to the Asia Cup trophy after India — the tournament winners — refused to accept it directly from him.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has formally raised the issue with the ICC. The trophy reportedly remains at the ACC headquarters in Dubai, with India yet to officially take possession.
Despite the controversy, Naqvi is believed to have instructed ACC staff not to move the trophy in his absence, insisting he still intends to present it.
What’s next for Pakistan cricket?
Pakistan’s cricket calendar remains packed despite the regional uncertainty. After the November tri-series window, and a potential January tour of Sri Lanka, the men’s team is also slated to host Australia for three ODIs and three T20Is — their final major assignment before the ICC T20 World Cup.
How these overlapping commitments are managed will depend heavily on political stability, international cooperation, and swift action by the PCB and ICC. With multiple stakeholders involved — including CA, SLC, and the ICC — Pakistan’s cricket leadership faces a complex diplomatic and logistical balancing act.
