Key New Zealand cricketers are set to miss the upcoming Pakistan tour as they prioritize their commitments in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. The New Zealand cricket team was scheduled to tour Pakistan between April 14 and 28 for a five-match T20I series, with games to be held in Lahore and Rawalpindi.
However, with the IPL commencing on March 24 and the schedule extending beyond the proposed Pakistan tour dates, several prominent players including Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Lockie Ferguson, Rachin Ravindra, and Trent Boult will be unavailable for the Pakistan series.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has disclosed the schedule for the first 17 IPL games, with the remaining fixtures set to be revealed after the general elections in India, expected to take place in April.
This clash in schedules between the IPL and the Pakistan vs New Zealand T20I series leaves the New Zealand cricket board facing a dilemma, as the IPL final is scheduled for May 26, just before the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 commences in the USA and West Indies from June 1.
In terms of international fixtures, April sees New Zealand traveling to Pakistan for the T20I series, while May involves Pakistan’s tours to the Netherlands, Ireland, and England for T20I matches.
However, with key players tied up in the IPL, New Zealand’s squad for the Pakistan tour may see significant changes or adjustments to accommodate the players’ IPL commitments. This clash underscores the challenges faced by cricket boards in managing player schedules amidst the packed international and domestic cricket calendar.
Also, see:
Pakistan set to host New Zealand for five T20Is
