February 22, 2008	Friday	Safar 14, 1429

LAHORE, Feb 21: A proposed three-match One-day International series with any of the two Asian countries is likely to be finalised in the next couple of days, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Dr Nasim Ashraf said on Thursday.

Speaking to Dawn, Dr Ashraf said he was awaiting green signal from any of the two countries and, if confirmed, the contest will amply fill the gap created due to a shortened home series against Australia later next month.

“If the ODI series materializes, it will help in preparing Pakistan for the Australia series besides providing enthralling action for the fans.”

Although the series against Australia is still in the doldrums due to security issues, it is now scheduled to commence from March 29 instead of March 10 which will give Pakistan enough time to play a mini ODI series.

Cricket Australia is yet to confirm the tour to Pakistan, as its various players are reluctant to be part of their team due to security concerns in the country.

An Australian security team is to visit Pakistan in the first week of March to inspect different arrangements before giving a final report on the tour.

Though the PCB chairman avoided disclosing the names of the two countries, reliable sources said they, in all probability, are India and Sri Lanka.

“I am not in a position to disclose the names of the countries because it does not seem fair to announce the names without getting their consent,” the chairman said.

“Our players are likely to improve after playing against any of the major teams and will hopefully get us in perfect shape for Australia series,” he added.

It is also being said that that the PCB has decided to host all the matches of the proposed ODI series in Lahore which will sadly deprive other cities from international level action.