ISLAMABAD: Australia’s cricket team arrived in Islamabad on Friday amid tight security and a warm reception ahead of the much-awaited three-match One Day International (ODI) series against Pakistan, beginning at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on May 30.
The visiting squad landed at Islamabad International Airport, where officials of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), security personnel, and representatives of the Australian High Commission welcomed the players and team management. The Australian cricketers were later escorted to a local hotel under strict VVIP security arrangements.
The series is being viewed as another major step in Pakistan’s successful hosting of international cricket events and is expected to attract large crowds, particularly with Australia returning for a high-profile white-ball assignment.
Sources said the Australian players would spend the next two days relaxing and recovering from travel fatigue before beginning light training sessions and recreational activities, including golf, from May 24. The visitors are expected to hold their first formal practice session at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Monday.
Security has been further tightened in Islamabad and Rawalpindi for the series, with law-enforcement agencies putting in place extensive arrangements to ensure the smooth movement of both teams and officials. Special routes, command-and-control centres, and a heavy deployment of police and paramilitary forces have been arranged for the event.
PCB officials expressed confidence that the ODI series would not only provide thrilling cricket but would also strengthen Pakistan’s growing reputation as a safe and reliable venue for international teams.
The opening ODI will be played on May 30 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, where a full house is expected for the clash between the two cricketing giants. The remaining matches of the series will be played at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore (on June 2 and 4), and are also expected to draw significant fan interest as Pakistan look to challenge one of the world’s strongest ODI sides on home soil.
