Pakistan have been handed a huge blow ahead of the start of their three-match Test series against Australia at home as fast bowler Haris Rauf has tested positive for COVID-19. The Australian cricket team is currently on a historic tour of Pakistan for the first time in 24 years. Australia are scheduled to play three Tests, as many ODIs and one T20I against the hosts.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Tuesday (March 01) confirmed that Rauf's test returned positive after being shited to a bo-secure bubble ahead of the three-match series. The entire Pakistan Test squad has undergone COVID-19 tests on Tuesday before their training session at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium which is the venue for the first Test between the two teams.

Rauf will now have to spend at least 14 days in isolation and return a negative test before he can return to action once again. He is likely to miss the first two Tests of the three-match series if he fails to recover in time. Right-arm pacer Mohammad Abbas is likely to take his spot in the Test squad.

Rauf was the only Pakistan player who tested positive as the rest of the squad returned negative tests on Tuesday. The Pakistan team has been practising in Rawalpindi ahead of the start of the Test series and will be eager to get off to a winning start in their first Test series against Australia at home after more than two decades.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-cricketer-ashton-agar-receives-death-threat-ahead-of-pakistans-test-series-against-aussies-457621">Australian cricketer Ashton Agar receives death threat ahead of Pakistan's Test series against Aussies</a>

The Australian cricket team arrived in Pakistan amid tight security last week and has been staying in a bio-secure bubble in Rawalpindi ahead of the first Test. Ahead of the start of the series, Aussie cricketer Ashton Agar, who is part of the squad was subjected to a death threat online.

Agar's wife received a threatening message from a social media account and alerted Cricket Australia about the same. Reacting to the controversy, Cricket Australia said it was confident about the security arrangements in Pakistan and said the message was not a 'risk'.

Pakistan have been handed a huge blow ahead of the start of their three-match Test series against Australia at home as fast bowler Haris Rauf has tested positive for COVID-19.

Pakistan have been handed a huge blow ahead of the start of their three-match Test series against Australia at home as fast bowler Haris Rauf has tested positive for COVID-19. The Australian cricket team is currently on a historic tour of Pakistan for the first time in 24 years. Australia are scheduled to play three Tests, as many ODIs and one T20I against the hosts. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Tuesday (March 01) confirmed that Rauf's test returned positive after being shited to a bo-secure bubble ahead of the three-match series. The entire Pakistan Test squad has undergone COVID-19 tests on Tuesday before their training session at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium which is the venue for the first Test between the two teams. Rauf will now have to spend at least 14 days in isolation and return a negative test before he can return to action once again. He is likely to miss the first two Tests of the three-match series if he fails to recover in time. Right-arm pacer Mohammad Abbas is likely to take his spot in the Test squad. Rauf was the only Pakistan player who tested positive as the rest of the squad returned negative tests on Tuesday. The Pakistan team has been practising in Rawalpindi ahead of the start of the Test series and will be eager to get off to a winning start in their first Test series against Australia at home after more than two decades. Also Read: Australian cricketer Ashton Agar receives death threat ahead of Pakistan's Test series against Aussies The Australian cricket team arrived in Pakistan amid tight security last week and has been staying in a bio-secure bubble in Rawalpindi ahead of the first Test. Ahead of the start of the series, Aussie cricketer Ashton Agar, who is part of the squad was subjected to a death threat online. Agar's wife received a threatening message from a social media account and alerted Cricket Australia about the same. Reacting to the controversy, Cricket Australia said it was confident about the security arrangements in Pakistan and said the message was not a 'risk'.

Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf tests positive for COVID-19 ahead of Test series against Australia

Australia batsman Steve Smith said on Tuesday the players felt "incredibly safe" on their first tour of Pakistan in nearly 25 years, despite spinner Ashton Agar receiving a death threat via social media just days before the start of the first Test. Agar was warned against travelling to Pakistan, though the threat was dismissed following an investigation by the boards of Pakistan and Australia and government security agencies.

Cricket Australia said extensive security plans were in place for such social media activity and that the threat was "not considered a risk". Smith said the team trusted the security arrangements in place. "We`re aware of social media and the unfortunate events that can occur on platforms," he told reporters ahead of the first test, which starts on Friday in Rawalpindi. "We`ve got a lot of people working here with us, we trust our security and we`re feeling incredibly safe in Pakistan." Top teams have largely shunned Pakistan since an attack on the Sri Lanka team bus in Lahore in 2009 that killed six policemen and two civilians.

International sides have recently started touring Pakistan again but in September New Zealand returned home after abruptly abandoning a tour minutes before the opening game in Rawalpindi following a government security alert. England followed suit three days later, withdrawing their men`s and women`s teams from a tour in October citing the "mental and physical well-being" of players.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-cricketer-ashton-agar-receives-death-threat-ahead-of-pakistans-test-series-against-aussies-457621">Australian cricketer Ashton Agar receives death threat ahead of Pakistan's Test series against Aussies</a>

Smith said that he was relishing the challenge of playing in Pakistan. "It`s great to be back here and playing cricket," he said. "It`s the first time a lot of us have been here and we`re excited. We know how passionate Pakistanis are about cricket."

Smith sustained a concussion in a match against Sri Lanka in Sydney last month, slamming his head to the ground after falling over the boundary rope but the 32-year-old said he had progressed well. "It`s the first session back for me facing fast bowling. I`m recovering from the concussion and I`ve faced some side-arm and spinners," Smith said.

"The head has progressed really well the last few days. I`m feeling in a good space, done a lot of stuff where I`ve got my heart rate up to a good amount and brought it down ... all part of the protocols of getting back to playing."

Australia batsman Steve Smith said on Tuesday the players felt "incredibly safe" on their first tour of Pakistan in nearly 25 years, despite spinner Ashton Agar receiving a death threat via social media just days before the start of the first Test.

Australia batsman Steve Smith said on Tuesday the players felt "incredibly safe" on their first tour of Pakistan in nearly 25 years, despite spinner Ashton Agar receiving a death threat via social media just days before the start of the first Test. Agar was warned against travelling to Pakistan, though the threat was dismissed following an investigation by the boards of Pakistan and Australia and government security agencies. Cricket Australia said extensive security plans were in place for such social media activity and that the threat was "not considered a risk". Smith said the team trusted the security arrangements in place. "We`re aware of social media and the unfortunate events that can occur on platforms," he told reporters ahead of the first test, which starts on Friday in Rawalpindi. "We`ve got a lot of people working here with us, we trust our security and we`re feeling incredibly safe in Pakistan." Top teams have largely shunned Pakistan since an attack on the Sri Lanka team bus in Lahore in 2009 that killed six policemen and two civilians. International sides have recently started touring Pakistan again but in September New Zealand returned home after abruptly abandoning a tour minutes before the opening game in Rawalpindi following a government security alert. England followed suit three days later, withdrawing their men`s and women`s teams from a tour in October citing the "mental and physical well-being" of players. ALSO READ | Australian cricketer Ashton Agar receives death threat ahead of Pakistan's Test series against Aussies Smith said that he was relishing the challenge of playing in Pakistan. "It`s great to be back here and playing cricket," he said. "It`s the first time a lot of us have been here and we`re excited. We know how passionate Pakistanis are about cricket." Smith sustained a concussion in a match against Sri Lanka in Sydney last month, slamming his head to the ground after falling over the boundary rope but the 32-year-old said he had progressed well. "It`s the first session back for me facing fast bowling. I`m recovering from the concussion and I`ve faced some side-arm and spinners," Smith said. "The head has progressed really well the last few days. I`m feeling in a good space, done a lot of stuff where I`ve got my heart rate up to a good amount and brought it down ... all part of the protocols of getting back to playing."

Steve Smith says Australian cricket team 'incredibly safe' in Pakistan despite Ashton Agar threat

The Australian cricket team is currently in Pakistan on a historic tour of the country for the first time in 24 years. Australia is the first high-profile team in recent years that is set to play a full-fledged series in Pakistan. Australia last played in Pakistan in 1998 and have arrived this year for three Tests, as many ODIs and a one-off T20I against the&nbsp;Babar Azam-led side.

Ahead of the start of the three-match Test series, the Australian team has been alarmed after one of their cricketers received a death threat online. Australian cricketer Ashton Agar has been subjected to a death threat just days ahead of the start of the Test series between the two teams.

“This is a warning for your husband Ashton Agar. If he comes for tour against Pakistan he won't come alive," read a part of the message sent to Madeleine on her social media account.

"Your children will miss their Father if he comes to Pakistan. Our snipers will blow his head," it read further.

<img alt="Ashton Agar" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33c9eb34-6cdf-41c6-8398-e90ba1c97e5d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Ashton%20agar%20death.jpg" />

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/trolls-are-not-real-indians-mohammed-shami-on-facing-online-abuse-after-defeat-against-pakistan-in-t20-wc-457514">Trolls are not real Indians: Md.&nbsp;Shami on facing online abuse after defeat against Pakistan in T20 WC</a>

As per reports in Australian media, Madeleine was quick to inform about the message to Cricket Australia, who have since released a joint statement along with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on the matter. The Australian team had arrived in Pakistan's Islamabad on Sunday last week ahead of the start of the two-match Test series.

Cricket Australia in its statement said that the threatening message to Agar was not deemed a risk and that extensive security plans are in place for the historic Test series. “There are extensive security plans in place for this type of social media activity, which, in this case, is not considered a risk. No further comment will be made at this time," CA said in a joint statement with PCB.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dsappointing-that-virat-kohlis-100th-test-will-be-played-behind-closed-doors-sunil-gavaskar-457538">Disappointing that Virat Kohli's 100th Test will be played behind closed doors: Sunil Gavaskar</a>

Australia's tour of the country is a huge boost for the Pakistan Cricket Board in their bid to bring international cricket back to the nation. Major teams have refrained from travelling to Pakistan for security reasons since the infamous attack on the Sri Lankan team bus in Lahore in 2009.

Last year, New Zealand and England had both pulled out of their respective tours of Pakistan handing a big setback to the PCB. However, the Pakistan Cricket Board will hope for a successful completing of the upcoming series against Australia.

The Australian cricket team is currently in Pakistan on a historic tour of the country for the first time in 24 years. Australia is the first high-profile team in recent years that is set to play a full-fledged series in Pakistan.

The Australian cricket team is currently in Pakistan on a historic tour of the country for the first time in 24 years. Australia is the first high-profile team in recent years that is set to play a full-fledged series in Pakistan. Australia last played in Pakistan in 1998 and have arrived this year for three Tests, as many ODIs and a one-off T20I against the Babar Azam-led side. Ahead of the start of the three-match Test series, the Australian team has been alarmed after one of their cricketers received a death threat online. Australian cricketer Ashton Agar has been subjected to a death threat just days ahead of the start of the Test series between the two teams. “This is a warning for your husband Ashton Agar. If he comes for tour against Pakistan he won't come alive," read a part of the message sent to Madeleine on her social media account. "Your children will miss their Father if he comes to Pakistan. Our snipers will blow his head," it read further. Also Read: Trolls are not real Indians: Md. Shami on facing online abuse after defeat against Pakistan in T20 WC As per reports in Australian media, Madeleine was quick to inform about the message to Cricket Australia, who have since released a joint statement along with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on the matter. The Australian team had arrived in Pakistan's Islamabad on Sunday last week ahead of the start of the two-match Test series. Cricket Australia in its statement said that the threatening message to Agar was not deemed a risk and that extensive security plans are in place for the historic Test series. “There are extensive security plans in place for this type of social media activity, which, in this case, is not considered a risk. No further comment will be made at this time," CA said in a joint statement with PCB. Also Read: Disappointing that Virat Kohli's 100th Test will be played behind closed doors: Sunil Gavaskar Australia's tour of the country is a huge boost for the Pakistan Cricket Board in their bid to bring international cricket back to the nation. Major teams have refrained from travelling to Pakistan for security reasons since the infamous attack on the Sri Lankan team bus in Lahore in 2009. Last year, New Zealand and England had both pulled out of their respective tours of Pakistan handing a big setback to the PCB. However, the Pakistan Cricket Board will hope for a successful completing of the upcoming series against Australia.

Australian cricketer Ashton Agar receives death threat ahead of Pakistan's Test series against Aussies

The Australian cricket team arrived in Pakistan on Sunday (February 27) ahead of their historic series against the hosts. Australia are in Pakistan to play three Tests, as many ODIs and a one-off T20I game. The Aussies are touring Pakistan for the first time in 24 years making it a historic affair for both nations.

Australia had last toured Pakistan in 1998 and have since refrained from visiting the country like a number of other top cricketing nations. The high-profile teams had stopped visiting Pakistan post the attack of the bus of the Sri Lankan side in Lahore in 2009.

Over the last few years, Pakistan have hosted the likes of West Indies, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe at home but Australia will be the first high-profile team to play a full-fledged series in Pakistan. Though the Aussie side is missing a number of key players, the team's visit to Pakistan is a big boost for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

After arriving in Islamabad on Sunday, Australian Test skipper Pat Cummins spoke about the security arrangements by the Pakistan Cricket Board for the visitors and said he and his teammates feel incredibly safe. Cummins also thanked the PCB for looking after the players well. The Australian team will be confined in their hotel except for their training and matches.

"I feel incredibly safe. We've been really well looked after by the PCB. Upon arrival, there's been lots of security. We were straight off the plane and straight to the hotel," Cummins said on Sunday.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-was-dream-come-true-cant-forget-that-pakistan-pacer-shahnawaz-dahani-on-meeting-idol-ms-dhoni-456548">It was dream come true, can't forget that: Pakistan pacer Shahnawaz Dahani on meeting idol MS Dhoni</a>

"We've got a pretty good set-up here and we'll be confined to the hotel except for games and training. It's comforting and we're really lucky to be surrounded by so many professionals.

"There are lots of things around which might be a little bit different to what we're used to but we know it's been taken care of, so we can just really enjoy ourselves here," he added.

The three-match Test series between Australia and Pakistan will get underway from March 04 with the first Test in Rawalpinidi. The Aussies will then head to Karachi and Lahore for the next two matches before the start of the ODIsin Rawalpindi.

Australia are heading into the Tet series against Pakistan on the back of a comprehenive 4-0 thrashing of England in the Ashes 2021-22. The Aussies will start as favourites against the hosts but will be wary of Pakistan's bowling prowess which can prove tricky for the Australian batters.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-achieves-new-milestone-as-captain-after-india-hammer-sri-lanka-in-2nd-t20i-457071">&nbsp;Rohit Sharma achieves new milestone as captain after India hammer Sri Lanka in 2nd T20I</a>

Cummins is looking forward to the challenge of playing against Pakistan in their own backyard and hopes his team will continue their stellar run against the hosts in the upcoming Test series.

"I really hope so. I was really proud of how we performed throughout the Ashes summer back home in Australia, and now that’s the challenge to continue that and be just as relentless on an overseas tour," said the Aussie Test captain.

"Pakistan is an incredible cricket nation. We feel lucky to get to come back here after a whole generation didn’t get the chance to play any cricket over here," he added.

&nbsp;

The Australian cricket team arrived in Pakistan on Sunday (February 27) ahead of their historic series against the hosts. Australia are in Pakistan to play three Tests, as many ODIs and a one-off T20I game.

The Australian cricket team arrived in Pakistan on Sunday (February 27) ahead of their historic series against the hosts. Australia are in Pakistan to play three Tests, as many ODIs and a one-off T20I game. The Aussies are touring Pakistan for the first time in 24 years making it a historic affair for both nations. Australia had last toured Pakistan in 1998 and have since refrained from visiting the country like a number of other top cricketing nations. The high-profile teams had stopped visiting Pakistan post the attack of the bus of the Sri Lankan side in Lahore in 2009. Over the last few years, Pakistan have hosted the likes of West Indies, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe at home but Australia will be the first high-profile team to play a full-fledged series in Pakistan. Though the Aussie side is missing a number of key players, the team's visit to Pakistan is a big boost for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). After arriving in Islamabad on Sunday, Australian Test skipper Pat Cummins spoke about the security arrangements by the Pakistan Cricket Board for the visitors and said he and his teammates feel incredibly safe. Cummins also thanked the PCB for looking after the players well. The Australian team will be confined in their hotel except for their training and matches. "I feel incredibly safe. We've been really well looked after by the PCB. Upon arrival, there's been lots of security. We were straight off the plane and straight to the hotel," Cummins said on Sunday. Also Read: It was dream come true, can't forget that: Pakistan pacer Shahnawaz Dahani on meeting idol MS Dhoni "We've got a pretty good set-up here and we'll be confined to the hotel except for games and training. It's comforting and we're really lucky to be surrounded by so many professionals. "There are lots of things around which might be a little bit different to what we're used to but we know it's been taken care of, so we can just really enjoy ourselves here," he added. The three-match Test series between Australia and Pakistan will get underway from March 04 with the first Test in Rawalpinidi. The Aussies will then head to Karachi and Lahore for the next two matches before the start of the ODIsin Rawalpindi. Australia are heading into the Tet series against Pakistan on the back of a comprehenive 4-0 thrashing of England in the Ashes 2021-22. The Aussies will start as favourites against the hosts but will be wary of Pakistan's bowling prowess which can prove tricky for the Australian batters. Also Read: Rohit Sharma achieves new milestone as captain after India hammer Sri Lanka in 2nd T20I Cummins is looking forward to the challenge of playing against Pakistan in their own backyard and hopes his team will continue their stellar run against the hosts in the upcoming Test series. "I really hope so. I was really proud of how we performed throughout the Ashes summer back home in Australia, and now that’s the challenge to continue that and be just as relentless on an overseas tour," said the Aussie Test captain. "Pakistan is an incredible cricket nation. We feel lucky to get to come back here after a whole generation didn’t get the chance to play any cricket over here," he added.

Feel incredibly safe, PCB looking after us really well, says Pat Cummins as Australian team reaches Pakistan

In mid-September 2021, New Zealand cricket team pulled out of their tour of Pakistan at the last minute, just before the tour-opener, citing security concerns. The England Cricket Board (ECB) -- who was also next in-line and set to send their men and women's team to Pakistan&nbsp;-- also withdrew&nbsp;due to "bubble&nbsp; fatigue", which left the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) fuming.

However, the England cricket have made a strong move to amend their mistakes as the&nbsp;ECB boss Tom Harrison travelled to Pakistan to meet his PCB counterpart. Thus, he has assured that the England men's cricket team will tour Pakistan in September 2022, for seven T20Is (comprising two additional games), and return for a three-match Test series in the Asian country post next year's T20 World Cup (in Australia).

As a result of England's commitment, PCB chairman Ramiz Raja lauded the ECB and shared Pakistan cricket's forward plan.&nbsp;In a video shared by the PCB, Raja didn't just thank ECB for confirming the 2022 tour but also revealed that he is planning to introduce U-19 and Women's PSL along with giving the countrymen a full home season every year.

"I'm thankful to the England Cricket Board (ECB), as it wasn't easy for them. They were under pressure and we became emotional when the pullout took place. Everyone saw how Pakistan made its case, and the result is they came here. The only thing is we and the ECB must walk together because it's important for every board to understand each other, their frustrations, meet the expectations. I think the ECB also understood they committed a mistake by withdrawing, and it was a knee-jerk reaction," Raja said in the video.

"This tour was important, and it's their gratefulness. Coming over here to sort things out and accepting their fault and promising to play two additional T20Is is good news for our fans because I believe Pakistan should have a home season so spectators come and watch and top teams should tour."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-to-tour-pakistan-in-september-october-2022-to-play-two-additional-t20is-428089">England to tour Pakistan in September-October 2022, to play two additional T20Is</a>

Ramiz also hinted that NZ might also take a leaf from the ECB and reschedule their cancelled&nbsp;Pakistan tour for next year. "We are also revisiting New Zealand's tour, and when I go to Dubai, we might announce a schedule. However, England and Australia tours are massive breakthroughs, and I expect our side to perform well. I want us to be a proud nation and our fans, our team, and the board to be respected. Also, if we are firm and honest, we need not fear anybody," he said.

Lastly, he also made some big promises and revealed, "In October, hopefully we will launch something like a PSL for Under-19 level. We are very excited because this has not happened anywhere in the world.&nbsp;England will send their Under-19 players, we will look after them. We will create a new property.&nbsp;Going ahead, I will give you a home season."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
ٹام ہیریسن کا پاکستان آنا خوش آئند ہے، چیئرمین پی سی بی رمیز راجہ کی مستقبل کے منصوبوں پر گفتگو <a href="https://t.co/mtJgNN1OZ8">pic.twitter.com/mtJgNN1OZ8</a>
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealPCB/status/1458117980345208838?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-semi-finals-schedule-england-face-new-zealand-australia-to-lock-horns-with-pakistan-427709">T20 WC, semi-finals schedule: England face New Zealand, Australia to lock horns with Pakistan</a>

Ramiz-led PCB have faced several issues ever since the former captain took over the top post. Meanwhile, the Babar Azam-led Pakistan cricket team are also moving forward very strongly in the T20 WC after they were left frustrated post NZ and England's tour withdrawals. Babar &amp; Co. are in the last four of the T20 WC and will play Australia in the second semi-final, on Thursday (November 11) at Dubai.&nbsp;

So far, the Men in Green remain the only unbeaten side in the tournament. Will they return with the coveted title and give the best gift ever to the countrymen, who were left devastated and deprived of enjoying cricketing action on home soil post NZ, England's withdrawals? Only time will tell...

In mid-September 2021, New Zealand cricket team pulled out of their tour of Pakistan at the last minute, just before the tour-opener, citing security concerns. The England Cricket Board (ECB) -- who was also next in-line and set to send their men and women's team to Pakistan -- also withdrew due to "bubble fatigue", which left the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) fuming.

In mid-September 2021, New Zealand cricket team pulled out of their tour of Pakistan at the last minute, just before the tour-opener, citing security concerns. The England Cricket Board (ECB) -- who was also next in-line and set to send their men and women's team to Pakistan -- also withdrew due to "bubble fatigue", which left the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) fuming. However, the England cricket have made a strong move to amend their mistakes as the ECB boss Tom Harrison travelled to Pakistan to meet his PCB counterpart. Thus, he has assured that the England men's cricket team will tour Pakistan in September 2022, for seven T20Is (comprising two additional games), and return for a three-match Test series in the Asian country post next year's T20 World Cup (in Australia). As a result of England's commitment, PCB chairman Ramiz Raja lauded the ECB and shared Pakistan cricket's forward plan. In a video shared by the PCB, Raja didn't just thank ECB for confirming the 2022 tour but also revealed that he is planning to introduce U-19 and Women's PSL along with giving the countrymen a full home season every year. "I'm thankful to the England Cricket Board (ECB), as it wasn't easy for them. They were under pressure and we became emotional when the pullout took place. Everyone saw how Pakistan made its case, and the result is they came here. The only thing is we and the ECB must walk together because it's important for every board to understand each other, their frustrations, meet the expectations. I think the ECB also understood they committed a mistake by withdrawing, and it was a knee-jerk reaction," Raja said in the video. "This tour was important, and it's their gratefulness. Coming over here to sort things out and accepting their fault and promising to play two additional T20Is is good news for our fans because I believe Pakistan should have a home season so spectators come and watch and top teams should tour." ALSO READ | England to tour Pakistan in September-October 2022, to play two additional T20Is Ramiz also hinted that NZ might also take a leaf from the ECB and reschedule their cancelled Pakistan tour for next year. "We are also revisiting New Zealand's tour, and when I go to Dubai, we might announce a schedule. However, England and Australia tours are massive breakthroughs, and I expect our side to perform well. I want us to be a proud nation and our fans, our team, and the board to be respected. Also, if we are firm and honest, we need not fear anybody," he said. Lastly, he also made some big promises and revealed, "In October, hopefully we will launch something like a PSL for Under-19 level. We are very excited because this has not happened anywhere in the world. England will send their Under-19 players, we will look after them. We will create a new property. Going ahead, I will give you a home season." ٹام ہیریسن کا پاکستان آنا خوش آئند ہے، چیئرمین پی سی بی رمیز راجہ کی مستقبل کے منصوبوں پر گفتگو pic.twitter.com/mtJgNN1OZ8 — Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) November 9, 2021 × ALSO READ | T20 WC, semi-finals schedule: England face New Zealand, Australia to lock horns with Pakistan Ramiz-led PCB have faced several issues ever since the former captain took over the top post. Meanwhile, the Babar Azam-led Pakistan cricket team are also moving forward very strongly in the T20 WC after they were left frustrated post NZ and England's tour withdrawals. Babar & Co. are in the last four of the T20 WC and will play Australia in the second semi-final, on Thursday (November 11) at Dubai. So far, the Men in Green remain the only unbeaten side in the tournament. Will they return with the coveted title and give the best gift ever to the countrymen, who were left devastated and deprived of enjoying cricketing action on home soil post NZ, England's withdrawals? Only time will tell...

Women's and U-19 PSL, full home season: Ramiz reveals forward plan as PAK look to revamp as hosts

Australia will be touring Pakistan for the first time in 24 years when they travel to the country in March next year for a full-fledged tour consisting of a three-match Test series, a three-match ODI series and a one-off T20I game. Australia had last travelled to Pakistan in 1998 and their tour next year is all set to be a historic one from Pakistan's perspective.

Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell, however, said he was unsure of travelling to Pakistan with the rest of his teammates for the tour next year. Maxwell is a vital cog in the Australian limited-overs setup and is currently in action for the Aaron Finch-led side at the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021.

Maxwell revealed he is not sure whether he will be travelling to Pakistan when asked by the reporters about the announcement of the tour during a press conference ahead of Australia's semi-final clash against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2021. Maxwell said the decision will depend on his fiancee as his wedding is scheduled to happen around the same time.

"I think it's great that we've got a tour to go back there. I think I saw it was 1998 the last time we went there. Whether I'm going there or not might probably hinge on my fiancee because my wedding is supposed to be on during that time. So I'm probably not quite the right person to ask that question," Maxwell told reporters.

Maxwell has been dating pharmacist Vini Raman for several years now and the couple was all set to tie the knot before their wedding got delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic last year. They had gotten engaged in March 2020 and are yet to tie the knot.

When asked if there is a possibility his wedding can be rescheduled for him to make it to the Pakistan tour, Maxwell said there was no chance of the wedding to be delayed again as it has already been rescheduled a couple of times.

"Not a chance. We've already moved it a couple of times so I think this is it," said the Aussie all-rounder.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/some-players-might-not-be-comfortable-going-captain-tim-paine-on-australias-tour-of-pakistan-428013">Some players might not be comfortable going: Captain Tim Paine on Australia's tour of Pakistan</a>

Earlier, Australian Test skipper Tim Paine had admitted while speaking to SEN Radio that some Australian players might pull out of the tour as they might not be comfortable travelling to Pakistan. Australia will tour Pakistan in March next year for three Tests, three ODIs and one T20I game.

&nbsp;

Australia will be touring Pakistan for the first time in 24 years when they travel to the country in March next year for a full-fledged tour consisting of a three-match Test series, a three-match ODI series and a one-off T20I game.

Australia will be touring Pakistan for the first time in 24 years when they travel to the country in March next year for a full-fledged tour consisting of a three-match Test series, a three-match ODI series and a one-off T20I game. Australia had last travelled to Pakistan in 1998 and their tour next year is all set to be a historic one from Pakistan's perspective. Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell, however, said he was unsure of travelling to Pakistan with the rest of his teammates for the tour next year. Maxwell is a vital cog in the Australian limited-overs setup and is currently in action for the Aaron Finch-led side at the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Maxwell revealed he is not sure whether he will be travelling to Pakistan when asked by the reporters about the announcement of the tour during a press conference ahead of Australia's semi-final clash against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2021. Maxwell said the decision will depend on his fiancee as his wedding is scheduled to happen around the same time. "I think it's great that we've got a tour to go back there. I think I saw it was 1998 the last time we went there. Whether I'm going there or not might probably hinge on my fiancee because my wedding is supposed to be on during that time. So I'm probably not quite the right person to ask that question," Maxwell told reporters. Maxwell has been dating pharmacist Vini Raman for several years now and the couple was all set to tie the knot before their wedding got delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic last year. They had gotten engaged in March 2020 and are yet to tie the knot. When asked if there is a possibility his wedding can be rescheduled for him to make it to the Pakistan tour, Maxwell said there was no chance of the wedding to be delayed again as it has already been rescheduled a couple of times. "Not a chance. We've already moved it a couple of times so I think this is it," said the Aussie all-rounder. Also Read: Some players might not be comfortable going: Captain Tim Paine on Australia's tour of Pakistan Earlier, Australian Test skipper Tim Paine had admitted while speaking to SEN Radio that some Australian players might pull out of the tour as they might not be comfortable travelling to Pakistan. Australia will tour Pakistan in March next year for three Tests, three ODIs and one T20I game.

Glenn Maxwell not certain of travelling to Pakistan for Australia's tour next year, reveals why

Australia are all set to tour Pakistan for the first time in over 24 years after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Monday (PCB) announced the schedule of the full-fledged tour involving the two teams. Australia will tour Pakitan for a three-match Test series, as many ODIs and a one-off T20I match in March next year.&nbsp;

While PCB has confirmed the schedule, the tour remains subject to a security clearance by Cricket Australia. It has been reported that a delegation of Cricket Australia will visit Pakistan ahead of the commencement of the tour and will inspect the security situation before giving the final approval for the tour.

Australia's Test captain Tim Paine has made a glaring admission ahead of the historic tour of the Aussie team as he insisted some players might not be comfortable travelling to Pakistan. In the past, several players have expressed their reservations about travelling to Pakistan, which had been boycotted by several international teams after a terrorist attack on the bus of the Sri Lankan team in Lahore in 2009.

Though international cricket has resumed in Pakistan, some players and teams still have reservations about travelling to the country. Paine admitted some of the Australian players might not give their nod for the tour despite being assured of the security situation there.

“There’ll be some guys who will be happy to take the experts’ advice, and others will want to know a bit more. If we’re totally honest, there might be some people who aren’t comfortable going regardless. That’s happened before with tours going to other countries going back forever,” Paine told SEN Radio.

“Again, there are issues that will, I’m sure pop-up. We’ll discuss it; people get the right answers and feel comfortable, then we’ll get hopefully the best team we can. At the end of the day, it comes down to the individual,” he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-to-lead-india-in-new-zealand-t20i-series-jasprit-bumrah-mohammed-shami-likely-to-be-rested-427998">Rohit to lead India in New Zealand T20I series;&nbsp;Bumrah,&nbsp;Shami likely to be rested</a>

Recently, New Zealand had called&nbsp;off their tour of Pakistan after receiving a security threat while the players were in Rawalpindi. The tour was called off hours ahead of the start of the first ODI between Pakistan and New Zealand in Rawalpindi as the Kiwis flew back home without playing.

England too called off their tour of Pakistan following New Zealand's decision. Recalling his experience of playing in Pakistan for the World XI team in an exhibition match in 2017, Paine said the security arrangements were 'unlike anything he had seen before'.

“The security that we had on that tour was unlike anything that I’ve ever seen in my life. We had helicopters overhead, roads shut down five kilometres around us, checkpoints like every kilometre into the ground, it was extraordinary," Paine said.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-dont-care-who-you-are-even-if-you-put-don-bradman-in-a-bubble-his-average-will-drop-ravi-shastri-427991">&nbsp;I don't care who you are, even if you put Don Bradman in a bubble his average will drop: Ravi Shastri</a>

“The fact you’re seeing it and thinking to yourself it may be necessary can be a bit unnerving, but at the same time to see the planning and execution of it, with literally a couple of choppers above your bus 20-30 metres above your head was comforting but also unnerving at the same time," he added.

If the tour goes ahead successfully, It will be Australia's first tour in Pakistan in 24 years. The Aussies last travelled to the country for a cricket tour in 1998.

&nbsp;

Australia are all set to tour Pakistan for the first time in over 24 years after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Monday (PCB) announced the schedule of the full-fledged tour involving the two teams.

Australia are all set to tour Pakistan for the first time in over 24 years after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Monday (PCB) announced the schedule of the full-fledged tour involving the two teams. Australia will tour Pakitan for a three-match Test series, as many ODIs and a one-off T20I match in March next year. While PCB has confirmed the schedule, the tour remains subject to a security clearance by Cricket Australia. It has been reported that a delegation of Cricket Australia will visit Pakistan ahead of the commencement of the tour and will inspect the security situation before giving the final approval for the tour. Australia's Test captain Tim Paine has made a glaring admission ahead of the historic tour of the Aussie team as he insisted some players might not be comfortable travelling to Pakistan. In the past, several players have expressed their reservations about travelling to Pakistan, which had been boycotted by several international teams after a terrorist attack on the bus of the Sri Lankan team in Lahore in 2009. Though international cricket has resumed in Pakistan, some players and teams still have reservations about travelling to the country. Paine admitted some of the Australian players might not give their nod for the tour despite being assured of the security situation there. “There’ll be some guys who will be happy to take the experts’ advice, and others will want to know a bit more. If we’re totally honest, there might be some people who aren’t comfortable going regardless. That’s happened before with tours going to other countries going back forever,” Paine told SEN Radio. “Again, there are issues that will, I’m sure pop-up. We’ll discuss it; people get the right answers and feel comfortable, then we’ll get hopefully the best team we can. At the end of the day, it comes down to the individual,” he added. Also Read: Rohit to lead India in New Zealand T20I series; Bumrah, Shami likely to be rested Recently, New Zealand had called off their tour of Pakistan after receiving a security threat while the players were in Rawalpindi. The tour was called off hours ahead of the start of the first ODI between Pakistan and New Zealand in Rawalpindi as the Kiwis flew back home without playing. England too called off their tour of Pakistan following New Zealand's decision. Recalling his experience of playing in Pakistan for the World XI team in an exhibition match in 2017, Paine said the security arrangements were 'unlike anything he had seen before'. “The security that we had on that tour was unlike anything that I’ve ever seen in my life. We had helicopters overhead, roads shut down five kilometres around us, checkpoints like every kilometre into the ground, it was extraordinary," Paine said. Also Read: I don't care who you are, even if you put Don Bradman in a bubble his average will drop: Ravi Shastri “The fact you’re seeing it and thinking to yourself it may be necessary can be a bit unnerving, but at the same time to see the planning and execution of it, with literally a couple of choppers above your bus 20-30 metres above your head was comforting but also unnerving at the same time," he added. If the tour goes ahead successfully, It will be Australia's first tour in Pakistan in 24 years. The Aussies last travelled to the country for a cricket tour in 1998.

Some players might not be comfortable going: Captain Tim Paine on Australia's tour of Pakistan

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Monday announced details of Australia's first tour of Pakistan since 1998, which will take place in March and April 2022, and comprise three Tests, three ODIs and one T20I.

The Tests will take place in Karachi (March 3-7), Rawalpindi (March 12-16) and Lahore (March 21-25), while Lahore will be the venue for the four white-ball matches to be played from March 29 to April 5.

The Tests will be played as part of the ICC World Test Championship, while the ODIs will be connected to the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Super League - a 13-team event from which the seven highest-placed sides and the hosts, India, will qualify directly for the event proper in 2023.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-pak-continue-to-win-hearts-as-babar-co-celebrate-haris-raufs-birthday-with-scotland-players-427612">WATCH: PAK continue to win hearts as Babar &amp; Co. celebrate Haris Rauf's birthday with Scotland players</a>

PCB Chairman Ramiz Raja, who played eight Tests and 18 ODIs against Australia: "I am delighted to welcome Australia to Pakistan. From a personal point of view, it pleases me no end that we`ll be engaged in a three-Test match series, connoisseurs delight."

"Australia is one of the high-performing sides and them playing in our backyard for the first time after a gap of 24 years will be a special treat for the fans. Likewise, it will be a great opportunity for the Australia cricketers to not only play at our iconic venues but also feel and enjoy the respect, love and hospitality that this great country offers, something which most of their previous generation of cricketers missed out by playing offshore," he added.

Cricket Australia Chief Executive Nick Hockley: "Cricket Australia is excited about the prospect of touring Pakistan next year for what will be a highly anticipated series in a country so incredibly passionate about the game and their national team."

"Pakistan is a formidable opposition with an exceptionally talented team, as evidenced by their dynamic performances in the current ICC Men`s T20 World Cup in the UAE," he added.

As part of the reconnoitring process, Cricket Australia's delegation will visit Pakistan to meet with PCB officials as well as provincial and federal authorities to discuss and finalise matters relating to team operations, logistics, security and Covid-19 protocols.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-win-hearts-as-they-congratulate-namibia-on-their-inspiring-t20-wc-journey-watch-426316">Pakistan win hearts as they congratulate Namibia on their inspiring T20 WC journey - WATCH</a>

Australia last toured Pakistan in 1998-99 when Mark Taylor led them to a 1-0 series victory - their first since Richie Benaud`s side defeated Fazal Mahmood's team by 2-0 in the 1959-60 series.

Between the two series, Pakistan hosted Australia in 1964-65 (drew 0-0), 1979-80 (won 1-0), 1982-83 (won 3-0), 1988-89 (won 1-0) and 1994-95 (won 1-0).Pakistan staged the last four series with Australia offshore - 2002-2003 (Colombo and Sharjah, Pakistan lost 3-0), 2010 (drew 1-1 in England), 2014-15 (won 2-0 in the UAE) and 2018-19 (won 1-0 in the UAE).&nbsp;

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Monday announced details of Australia's first tour of Pakistan since 1998, which will take place in March and April 2022, and comprise three Tests, three ODIs and one T20I.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Monday announced details of Australia's first tour of Pakistan since 1998, which will take place in March and April 2022, and comprise three Tests, three ODIs and one T20I. The Tests will take place in Karachi (March 3-7), Rawalpindi (March 12-16) and Lahore (March 21-25), while Lahore will be the venue for the four white-ball matches to be played from March 29 to April 5. The Tests will be played as part of the ICC World Test Championship, while the ODIs will be connected to the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Super League - a 13-team event from which the seven highest-placed sides and the hosts, India, will qualify directly for the event proper in 2023. ALSO READ: WATCH: PAK continue to win hearts as Babar & Co. celebrate Haris Rauf's birthday with Scotland players PCB Chairman Ramiz Raja, who played eight Tests and 18 ODIs against Australia: "I am delighted to welcome Australia to Pakistan. From a personal point of view, it pleases me no end that we`ll be engaged in a three-Test match series, connoisseurs delight." "Australia is one of the high-performing sides and them playing in our backyard for the first time after a gap of 24 years will be a special treat for the fans. Likewise, it will be a great opportunity for the Australia cricketers to not only play at our iconic venues but also feel and enjoy the respect, love and hospitality that this great country offers, something which most of their previous generation of cricketers missed out by playing offshore," he added. Cricket Australia Chief Executive Nick Hockley: "Cricket Australia is excited about the prospect of touring Pakistan next year for what will be a highly anticipated series in a country so incredibly passionate about the game and their national team." "Pakistan is a formidable opposition with an exceptionally talented team, as evidenced by their dynamic performances in the current ICC Men`s T20 World Cup in the UAE," he added. As part of the reconnoitring process, Cricket Australia's delegation will visit Pakistan to meet with PCB officials as well as provincial and federal authorities to discuss and finalise matters relating to team operations, logistics, security and Covid-19 protocols. ALSO READ | Pakistan win hearts as they congratulate Namibia on their inspiring T20 WC journey - WATCH Australia last toured Pakistan in 1998-99 when Mark Taylor led them to a 1-0 series victory - their first since Richie Benaud`s side defeated Fazal Mahmood's team by 2-0 in the 1959-60 series. Between the two series, Pakistan hosted Australia in 1964-65 (drew 0-0), 1979-80 (won 1-0), 1982-83 (won 3-0), 1988-89 (won 1-0) and 1994-95 (won 1-0).Pakistan staged the last four series with Australia offshore - 2002-2003 (Colombo and Sharjah, Pakistan lost 3-0), 2010 (drew 1-1 in England), 2014-15 (won 2-0 in the UAE) and 2018-19 (won 1-0 in the UAE).

Australia to tour Pakistan for first time in 24 years for limited-overs series in early 2022