The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has dropped the idea of holding its home series against the West Indies at the neutral venues of Sri Lanka in September and October this year as the Board has decided to play the full series at the neutral venues of the United Arab Emirates. 

It is pertinent to mention that due to high cost of venues at the UAE, the PCB had started considering Sri Lanka as alternate venues where the expenditure could be far less as compared to the UAE. 

But later on the PCB realised that the months of September and October did not suit cricket activities due to rains in the Island country. Rainy weather could disturb the matches which would not only hit the interest of fans but also broadcasters.

The PCB is therefore in fresh negotiations with the United Arab Emirates cricketing authorities to hold the series as per the plan. The UAE has become Pakistan’s second home after all ICC member countries refused to tour Pakistan on security grounds. 

The PCB is also trying to get some relaxation in dues to minimize the cost of the series. Also, the UAE is agreeing to reduce the fee but not to the level the PCB wants. However, more negotiations will be held to further reduce the cost. 

The cost of the series at the neutral venues of Sri Lanka was quite low but it was less profitable. On the contrary, the cost of the series in the UAE may be high but the chances of income are far more as compared to the Sri Lankan venues. 

One of the matches during the Test series against West Indies will be played under the floodlights.

Source: Daily Times