Pakistan to propose South Africa for Test series

Lahore, Mar 24 (UNI) Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to send a formal proposal to the South Africa board for the Test series to fill up their empty international calender after Australia withdrew their tour.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) wants to host South Africa for three-Test match series to be played after the Champions Trophy in September.

''We have had a verbal communication with them (South Africa) over a possible Test series and their response is encouraging,'' PCB's Chief Operating Officer, Shafqat Naghmi told 'The News'.

''Our first priority is to host the South Africans for the proposed Test series in October but if because of any reason they cannot visit then we will be willing to send our team to South Africa.'' Australia's pull out, due to security fears, meant Pakistan were left with only three Tests (against India) in 2008. Australia were scheduled to play three Tests, five one-dayers and a Twenty20 International.

The PCB could not persuade India to visit for a one-day series and their plan to host Sri Lanka is likely to be jeopardised by the IPL.

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