Australia will play white-ball series in Pakistan next year: CA chief

A Pakistani player in action against Australia at Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on November 11, 2021. — Reuters

Todd Greenberg, the chief executive officer of Cricket Australia (CA), has reiterated Australia's commitment to enhancing cricket relations with Pakistan by means of bilateral visits and increased involvement of Pakistani players in the Big Bash League (BBL).

Emphasising the significance of this bilateral relationship, Greenberg confirmed that Australia will travel to Pakistan for a white-ball series in 2026.

"We're touring Pakistan next year for some white-ball cricket, which I think will be great. The 2022 tour showed how warm and welcoming the environment was, and our players loved it," he said speaking to reporters.

Greenberg also touched on the challenges Pakistani players face in participating in the BBL because of no objection certificate (NOC) restrictions from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) but said that Cricket Australia is actively looking for solutions.

“We would welcome more high-profile Pakistani players in the BBL. They have huge followings here in Australia, especially among the local Pakistani community,” he stated. “There are conversations happening right now to attract players, and hopefully some of that comes together for this upcoming BBL season.”

He also emphasised that nationality or origin should never be a barrier in building a world-class tournament.

"Our aim is to bring the best players to the BBL, regardless of where they come from. The inclusion of Pakistani stars would be great for the league and the teams."

Greenberg’s comments come at a time when Pakistani cricket has a strong global footprint, and Australia is looking to tap into that connection — both for the growth of the BBL and broader cricket diplomacy.

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