Pakistan Tri-Series Faces Uncertainty as Zimbabwe Unable to Make Trip in January 2027

Pakistan Tri-Series Faces Uncertainty as Zimbabwe Unable to Make Trip in January 2027

Pakistan’s three-nation ODI series with Ireland and Zimbabwe may no longer go ahead as planned, with Zimbabwe unlikely to make the trip in January 2027.

The proposed series has been affected by commercial issues surrounding Zimbabwe’s participation, and the two sides are now believed to be discussing a different window for the fixtures.

With Zimbabwe no longer expected to make the trip, Pakistan and Ireland could instead play a bilateral white-ball series in January. There had also been discussions over a Test match between the two sides, although that plan is now unlikely to move forward.

“The PCB and Cricket Ireland are currently working through a revised schedule for the tour, and details will be made available shortly,” said the Cricket Ireland spokesperson.

Pakistan are keen to get plenty of ODI cricket under their belt before the World Cup. Their upcoming schedule includes a tri-series at home with Sri Lanka and England, followed by a possible five-match ODI tour of Bangladesh. They will also face England in five ODIs next summer.

For Ireland, the focus will be on the World Cup qualifiers in February. They will be aiming to secure a place in the tournament, which will take place in October and November across South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. Keeping that in view, playing Pakistan in the ODIs would also give Ireland a chance to prepare for the World Cup.