Australia to Play Three ODIs in Lahore in First Pakistan Visit Since 2022

Key facts

• Australia last played an ODI series in Pakistan in 2022, losing 2–1.
• The three ODIs are scheduled for May 31, June 2, and June 4 at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
• Australia lead the overall ODI head-to-head 71–36 in 111 matches, with 4 no-results.
• After the Pakistan series, Australia will tour Bangladesh for three ODIs (June 9, 11, 14) and three T20Is (June 17, 19, 21).
• Pakistan will play a two-Test series in Bangladesh from May 8–12 (Dhaka) and May 16–20 (Sylhet) as part of the ICC World Test Championship.
• Shan Masood will captain Pakistan; four uncapped players (Abdullah Fazal, Amad Butt, Azan Awais, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori) have been called up.
• Pakistan's last Test assignment was a 1–1 draw against South Africa in October 2024.

Lahore Set to Host All Three ODIs

Australia are expected to play a three-match ODI series against Pakistan at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, with matches tentatively scheduled for May 31, June 2 and June 4. The Pakistan Cricket Board is expected to formally announce the schedule in the coming days. The series will be Australia’s first 50-over tour of Pakistan since 2022, when Pakistan won the three-match series 2–1. Historically, Australia have dominated the head-to-head, leading 71–36 in 111 ODIs, with four matches ending without a result. All matches are likely to be held at the same venue, giving Lahore fans a chance to see one of the world’s top teams in action.

Australia’s Regional Tour Continues in Bangladesh

After the Pakistan leg, Australia will travel to Bangladesh for a full men’s white-ball series in June 2026, ending a 15-year gap between bilateral ODI series in that country. The three ODIs will be played at Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on June 9, 11 and 14. The tour will then move to Chattogram for three T20Is on June 17, 19 and 21 at Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium. The back-to-back tours highlight Australia’s increased engagement with South Asian cricket.

Pakistan’s Test Preparations Before the ODI Series

Before hosting Australia, Pakistan will play a two-match Test series in Bangladesh as part of the ICC World Test Championship. The first Test is scheduled in Dhaka from May 8 to 12, and the second at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium from May 16 to 20. This will be Pakistan’s first Test assignment since hosting South Africa in October 2024, which ended in a 1–1 draw. Shan Masood will continue to lead the side, while four uncapped players — Abdullah Fazal, Amad Butt, Azan Awais, and Muhammad Ghazi Ghori — have received call-ups to the national squad.

Pakistan’s Packed Home Season Ahead

Later this year, Pakistan is also scheduled to play Test series against England, Sri Lanka, and West Indies, underlining the country’s return as a regular host for international cricket. The Australia ODI series is a key part of that calendar, offering both teams a chance to fine-tune their white-ball strategies. The PCB’s decision to host all matches in Lahore suggests a focus on logistical efficiency and fan engagement, though no official confirmation on venues or timings has been released.

Historical Context and Stakes

Australia’s last ODI series in Pakistan in 2022 ended in a 2–1 defeat, a result that will motivate the visitors to improve. Pakistan, meanwhile, will aim to build on that home success and continue their upward trajectory in 50-over cricket. The overall head-to-head record heavily favors Australia, but Pakistan’s recent home form — including a series win against Australia — shows they can compete. The series will also serve as preparation for both teams ahead of future ICC events.

The bottom line

• Australia will play three ODIs in Lahore on May 31, June 2 and June 4, their first 50-over series in Pakistan since 2022.
• After Pakistan, Australia will tour Bangladesh for three ODIs and three T20Is in June 2026.
• Pakistan will first play a two-Test series in Bangladesh from May 8–20 as part of the ICC World Test Championship.
• Shan Masood captains Pakistan; four uncapped players have been called up for the Bangladesh Tests.
• Pakistan’s home season later includes Test series against England, Sri Lanka, and West Indies.
• Australia lead the ODI head-to-head 71–36, but Pakistan won the last series 2–1 at home.