West Indies, Pakistan Cricket Boards Clash Over White-Ball Series Format

Format Disagreement Emerges Between CWI and PCB for Upcoming White-Ball Series

Cricket West Indies (CWI) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) are reportedly in disagreement regarding the format of their upcoming white-ball series scheduled for August in the United States and the Caribbean. Sources indicate that the Pakistan team is pushing for changes to the Caribbean leg of the tour, and may consider alternative options if the schedule isn't revised.

Pakistan aims to maximize T20I games before the next T20 World Cup © Getty

The current schedule outlines three Twenty20 Internationals and three ODIs to be played between August 1 and 12, with the T20Is preceding the ODIs. The core of the dispute lies in the PCB's request to convert the three ODIs in the Caribbean into T20Is. Insiders confirm that the Pakistan board is advocating for a series comprised exclusively of the shortest format.

The CWI, however, is determined to maintain the ODI format for the second leg of the series in Trinidad. Their stance is understandable, considering the West Indies' recent failure to qualify for the 2023 ODI World Cup in India. Consequently, they are keen to play more 50-over matches. CWI confirmed ongoing discussions with the PCB regarding the schedule.

"The schedule remains as it is, and we continue to engage with the PCB on the matter," stated CWI CEO Chris Dehring. He confirmed that further consultations are planned during the ICC Annual Conference in Singapore.

The PCB's rationale is centered on providing their national T20 side with maximum exposure ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. PCB COO Sumair Ahmed has publicly addressed this objective, emphasizing the board's desire to optimize preparations for the global tournament.

The original schedule lists the three T20Is for August 1, 2, and 4 in Lauderhill, Florida, followed by the ODIs on August 8, 10, and 12 in Tarouba, Trinidad.