Pakistan women’s national team’s ongoing tour of Zimbabwe has been called off after the visiting side’s carrier, Emirates Airlines, said that it had suspended its flight operations on the Harare-Dubai route between February 13 and 28.
After the airlines announcement, both Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have mutually agreed to call off the tour.
“Following Emirates Airlines’ announcement of their flight operations suspension on the Harare-Dubai sector from 13 to 28 February, both the boards have decided to end the tour,” Pakistan Cricket Board stated in a release.
Pakistan were set to play three one-dayers and three T20 internationals on the tour as a part of the preparation for the 2021 World Cup qualifiers.
“It has been a difficult decision considering Zimbabwe Cricket had put in place excellent arrangements for the series,” Wasim Khan, the PCB chief, said.
“But the decision by the Emirates Airlines to suspend all flights to and from Harare from 13 February to 28 February has meant that we have to bring the squad back in the next 24 hours. We thank Zimbabwe Cricket for their understanding and support, and hope to return at some stage to complete this additional tour,” he added.
On the other hand, Zimbabwe Cricket Managing Director Givemore Makoni said: “It is unfortunate that the Pakistan Women’s team have had to cut short their stay in Zimbabwe as a precautionary move after some unforeseen air travel complications arose, but their concern is understandable.”