Abu Dhabi and Dubai have been given security clearance to host five one-day matches and a Twenty20 international between Australia and Pakistan later this year after a series of safety breaches ruled Pakistan out as a venue.
A series of Test matches rescheduled for later in the year could also be played in the UAE. “We comply with all the ICC regulations and the inspectors seemed happy with what they saw,” said the Abu Dhabi Cricket Council chief executive and Emirates Cricket Board member Dilawar Mani.
“If the teams require any additional requirements, we will liaise with the relevant authorities to ensure they are met,” he added. New Zealand are another side who have declined to tour Pakistan and, again, the UAE is willing to step in to stage the Test and one-day international series. “We would be delighted to host the tournament and have offered to do so,” said Mani.
The UAE was also on standby to hold the ICC Champions Trophy after security fears prompted the switch from Pakistan. But the ICC have now proposed South Africa, and a final decision will be made on March 16, subject to agreement over financial arrangements.
