In what could be a significant development in the build-up to the 2026 T20 World Cup, the PCB is in talks with Australia over turning the planned bilateral T20I series in Pakistan into a tri-nation tournament, with Bangladesh emerging as the likely third side.
Pakistan is currently scheduled to host the Aussies for three T20Is in February ahead of the World Cup, with both teams using the series to fine-tune their preparations. According to sources within the BCB, preliminary conversations have already taken place with the PCB regarding the potential inclusion of Bangladesh.
“There has been informal communication from Pakistan’s end regarding a tri-nation series with Australia. No formal proposal has been received yet, but the discussions are promising,” a BCB official stated.
The PCB had earlier used a similar strategy before this year’s Champions Trophy, inviting New Zealand and South Africa before the start of the tournament. Cricket Australia has also often used subcontinental tours as part of its ICC event preparations, and a competition against two teams familiar with tougher surfaces could change its mind about rescheduling the series.
If greenlit, the tri-series would feature Pakistan, Bangladesh and Australia playing each other twice, followed by a final between the top two sides, offering seven games in total.
Interestingly, the PCB is following a similar model with its scheduled August T20I series against Afghanistan. Talks are underway to add the UAE as the third side, with matches expected to be hosted in the Emirates.
The move aligns with Pakistan’s broader strategy of building momentum for the T20 World Cup through more varied and competitive match environments.
With the Asia Cup and the 2026 T20 World Cup on the horizon, Pakistan’s effort to create multi-team series underscores its intent to leave no stone unturned in the lead-up. For Australia, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, too, such series provide critical match practice in conditions they’ll likely face during the showpiece events.
The cricketing calendar continues to heat up, and if all goes to plan, fans could be treated to two engaging tri-nation series before the next World Cup stage is set.