The opening T20 international of Pakistan’s tour of England has been abandoned without a ball being bowled.
Headingley was set to host the first of a four-match T20 series on Wednesday evening as the countdown to England’s defence of their World Cup title begins.
However heavy rain over Leeds throughout the day, and the prospect of more to come into the evening, meant it would not have been possible to fulfil even the shortest possible encounter of five overs aside.
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The series will now be decided over three matches, starting at Edgbaston on Saturday afternoon and heading to Sophia Gardens in Cardiff on Tuesday, May 28, and finishing at The Oval on Thursday, May 30.
The series is England’s only preparation before flying out on May 31 ahead of the World Cup in the Caribbean and USA.
England have recalled eight of their 15-man squad early from IPL duty, which has raised some eyebrows in India, as they step-up preparations for their tournament opener on June 4 in Barbados against Scotland.
No play possible as the first T20I has been called off due to rain 🌧️
The second T20I will take place in Birmingham on Saturday 🏏#ENGVPAK | #BACKTHEBOYSINGREEN PIC.TWITTER.COM/3TDADMNYWB
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) MAY 22, 2024
Jofra Archer is hoping to use this series to prove his fitness after a 14-month absence due to a chronic elbow problem.
The 29-year-old made a wicket-taking comeback for Sussex 2nds last week and is expected to play in at least two matches against Pakistan, the side England beat to land the 2022 title in Melbourne.
Skipper Jos Buttler is on standby as he is expecting the birth of his third child soon.
Pakistan, led by Babar Azam, go into the series off the back of securing a 2-1 win over Ireland in a three-match T20I series, last week.
