Bangladesh Accepts PCB Invitation For Early Arrival Ahead Of Pakistan Test Series

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that the senior Bangladesh cricket team will arrive in Lahore on Tuesday, August 13. They are set to play a two-Test series starting from August 21 in Rawalpindi.

Initially, the Bangladesh team was scheduled to arrive on August 17. However, due to growing unrest and political turmoil in their country, they accepted an invitation from the PCB to depart earlier.

"Originally scheduled to arrive on 17 August in Islamabad, the Bangladesh team will now land in Lahore on the morning of 13 August. The team will train at the Gaddafi Stadium from 14-16 August before traveling to Islamabad on 17 August to hold practice sessions at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium from 18-20 August," PCB said in a statement.

The PCB had extended an invitation to the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to send their team earlier, ensuring they have adequate and fair training opportunities ahead of the ICC World Test Championship matches," it added.

After student protests turned violent, PM Sheikh Hasina was forced to resign and flee from Bangladesh. Several BCB directors, including president Nazmul Hassan, were also forced to leave Bangladesh as they were backed by Sheikh Hasina's party Awami League.

Cricbuzz earlier reported that practice sessions resumed in Bangladesh, but reports have now emerged that they have been disrupted due to the unrest. Videos of Hindu minorities being attacked have also surfaced on social media.

Bangladesh A Team's Arrival

Bangladesh sent their A team to Pakistan on Saturday (August 10) after a four-day delay. They have not accepted the invitation for the senior team to come early and practice in Lahore ahead of the series. Bangladesh A are also in Pakistan to play two four-day and three 50-over games.

Statements from Officials

"Sports is not only about winning and losing, it's also about comradery. I remain confident that the extra training sessions in Lahore will allow the players to showcase their best skills and talent on the global stage," PCB Chief Operating Officer Salman Naseer said.

BCB Chief Executive Nizam Uddin Chowdhury has also thanked PCB for the gesture. "We thank the PCB for giving the Bangladesh cricket team the opportunity to have additional training in Pakistan. This will certainly help the players to acclimate to the conditions and prepare better for the ICC World Test Championship series," he said.

The decision for an early arrival aims at providing ample time for preparation amidst ongoing disruptions back home. The extra training sessions are expected to benefit both teams as they gear up for competitive matches ahead.