Australia to Play Three ODIs in Lahore in First 50-Over Series in Pakistan Since 2022

Key facts

• Three-match ODI series tentatively scheduled for May 31, June 2, and June 4 at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
• Australia's first ODI series in Pakistan since 2022, when Pakistan won 2–1.
• Australia lead the overall ODI head-to-head 71–36 in 111 matches, with four no-results.
• After Pakistan, Australia will tour Bangladesh for a white-ball series in June 2026, ending a 15-year gap.
• Pakistan's red-ball tour of Bangladesh includes two Tests in May 2025 as part of the WTC 2025–27 cycle.
• Shan Masood remains captain; four uncapped players called up: Abdullah Fazal, Amad Butt, Azan Awais, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori.

Lahore Set to Host All Three ODIs as Australia Return to Pakistan

Australia’s first 50-over series in Pakistan since 2022 is expected to be played entirely at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, according to a tentative schedule revealed on Thursday. The three-match series, proposed for 31 May, 2 June and 4 June, marks another significant international assignment for Pakistan on home soil. The Pakistan Cricket Board has yet to confirm the official schedule, but sources indicated that the plan is under final review. The series carries added weight as it will be Australia’s first bilateral ODI tour of Pakistan in three years, following Pakistan’s memorable 2–1 victory in the previous encounter.

Australia’s ODI Dominance and Pakistan’s Recent Home Success

Historically, Australia have dominated the ODI head-to-head, leading Pakistan 71–36 in 111 matches, with four games ending in no result. However, Pakistan’s 2–1 series win in 2022 demonstrated their growing competitiveness at home, where they have become a formidable side in recent years. The upcoming series will test both teams’ form ahead of future international commitments. For Australia, it is a chance to reclaim supremacy in the format, while Pakistan will aim to build on their previous home success against a top-tier opponent.

Australia’s Busy White-Ball Itinerary Includes Bangladesh After Pakistan

Following their tour of Pakistan, Australia are scheduled to travel to Bangladesh for a full men’s white-ball series in June 2026, ending a 15-year gap between bilateral ODI series in the country. The ODI matches will be held at Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka on 9, 11 and 14 June, with all fixtures starting at 6pm AEST. The tour will then move to Chattogram for three T20Is on 17, 19 and 21 June at the Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium. The first two T20Is are set to start at 10pm AEST, while the final fixture will begin at 6pm AEST.

Pakistan’s Red-Ball Focus: Test Series Against Bangladesh in May

Before the ODI series, Pakistan are preparing for a crucial red-ball tour of Bangladesh, where they will play a two-match Test series as part of the ongoing ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle. This will be their first red-ball assignment since hosting South Africa for a two-Test series in October last year, which ended in a 1–1 draw. The first Test is scheduled in Dhaka from 8 to 12 May, while the second will be held at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium from 16 to 20 May. Shan Masood will continue to lead the side, and four uncapped players — Abdullah Fazal, Amad Butt, Azan Awais and Muhammad Ghazi Ghori — have received call-ups to the national squad.

Uncapped Players Get Call-Ups as Pakistan Builds Squad Depth

The inclusion of four uncapped players — Abdullah Fazal, Amad Butt, Azan Awais and Muhammad Ghazi Ghori — signals Pakistan’s intent to deepen their talent pool ahead of a packed international calendar. These additions come as the team balances immediate series commitments with long-term squad development. The selectors’ decision reflects a strategy to integrate fresh talent into the senior setup, particularly in the red-ball format, where Pakistan will be looking to improve their standing in the World Test Championship.

Outlook: A Pivotal Home Season for Pakistan Cricket

The upcoming months represent a critical period for Pakistan cricket, with a Test series against Bangladesh followed by a high-profile ODI series against Australia. Success in these matches could boost Pakistan’s confidence and rankings, while also reinforcing their reputation as a competitive host nation. For Australia, the tour offers an opportunity to re-establish dominance in the subcontinent and prepare for future assignments, including the white-ball series in Bangladesh. The official confirmation of the ODI schedule by the PCB will set the stage for what promises to be a closely watched contest.

The bottom line

• Australia’s three-match ODI series in Pakistan is tentatively scheduled for late May to early June 2025, all at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
• This will be Australia’s first ODI series in Pakistan since 2022, when Pakistan won 2–1.
• Australia lead the overall ODI head-to-head 71–36, but Pakistan have shown home strength.
• After Pakistan, Australia will play a white-ball series in Bangladesh in June 2026, ending a 15-year ODI gap.
• Pakistan’s Test series against Bangladesh in May 2025 is part of the WTC 2025–27 cycle, with four uncapped players in the squad.
• Shan Masood remains captain, and the PCB will confirm the ODI schedule in due course.