March 21, 2008	Friday	Rabi-ul-Awwal 12, 1429

LAHORE, March 20: Sri Lanka have agreed to play a five-match one-day series in Pakistan to help fill the gap created by the postponement of Australia’s tour over security fears, officials said on Thursday.

“We are thankful to the Sri Lankan board, who have agreed to tour for a series of five one-day internationals on our invitation,” Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Nasim Ashraf told reporters.

The series is likely to take place after Mahela Jayawardene’s Sri Lankan team ends a tour of the West Indies on April 15. The only hitch could be the Indian Premier League (IPL) for which top Sri Lankan players have signed up.

The inaugural IPL is due to be held from April 18 until June 1.

Pakistan have already convinced Bangladesh to take part in a tour that includes a five-match one-day series and a Twenty20 international from April 7 to 22.

The two unscheduled tours will fill the gap created by Australia, who were due to be in the country between March 27 and April 29.

Cricket Sri Lanka chairman Arjuna Ranatunga praised Pakistan’s support for his country and said he was ready to send his team.

“India and Pakistan have always supported us in our needs like big brothers so I am ready to send my team whenever Pakistan want,” Ranatunga said.

The PCB said dates of the series will be finalised shortly.

—AFP