KARACHI, Dec 26: Pakistan are pondering a triangular one-day series with Sri Lanka and England next year if the Indians do not visit the country as scheduled.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman, Lt Gen Tauqir Zia, said hosting a triangular series with Sri Lanka and England was one of the main alternatives being pursued by the Board in case the Indians did not tour Pakistan in April-May next year.

“Our cricket operations manager has been speaking to the Sri Lankan board and ECB (England Cricket Board) regarding their availability after the World Cup,” he added.

India are due to tour Pakistan to play three Tests and three one-dayers from April 18 under the future tours programme of the International Cricket Council (ICC).

“Right now we have not set a date for them to confirm the tour, but we would like them to do so as soon as possible,” he added. “We can’t afford to keep waiting for long.”—Reuters

APP ADDS : Tauqir expressed optimism about Pakistan’s chances in the World Cup despite their indifferent form.

“There is nothing disappointing about Pakistan team they should come up in the World Cup,” he said after inaugurating the PCB Regional Academy hostel at National Stadium.

He said he was fully aware that Pakistan are drawn in a tough pool but keeping their unpredictably in mind they are capable of reaching the top.

Tauqir said by touring South Africa before the World Cup Pakistan players got acquainted themselves with the playing conditions.

The PCB chief opined that Yousuf Youhana should bat at number three spot.

He said PCB is ready to provide legal assistance to former national captain Wasim Akram to clear his name from match-fixing and betting allegations.