Srilanka emerges as pakistan,s new home venue

KARACHI: Pakistan is scheduled to host England for a Test and one-day international series early next year but with the precarious security situation in the country, the series is likely to be hosted at a neutral venue and Sri Lanka has emerged as one of the preferred hosts.

Being out of favour for hosting international cricket teams, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been in talks for choosing an alternate venue. These alternate options include the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where the PCB has already ‘hosted’ several series and Sri Lanka, whose officials appear optimistic about securing the England series.

“I have spoken to the cricket boards of both England and Pakistan and they have been very positive about playing the series in Sri Lanka,” Sri Lanka Cricket’s (SLC) Secretary Nishantha Ranatuga told cricket website Cricinfo.

While PCB’s Chief Operating Officer Subhan Ahmed said the UAE and Sri Lanka are likely venues, he did not confirm where the series could be hosted.

Sri Lanka’s optimism as emanates from the successful hosting of Pakistan’s group matches during the World Cup, which attracted a large number of Pakistani and local fans.

The two South Asian neighbours enjoy friendly relations and Pakistan’s cricket team receives generous support from local Sri Lankan fans.

The other factor favouring Sri Lanka over the UAE may be the finances involved, as the cost of hosting series in the gulf country has hit the PCB in its pockets.

The series, comprising three Tests, five ODIs and a Twenty20, is scheduled for January and February 2012