Pakistan women’s team end tour of Zimbabwe after airline suspends Harare flights

Pakistan were leading the three-match 50-over series 1-0 but have been forced to end the tour early because of flight restrictions imposed by Emirates Airlines

Pakistan women’s team have ended their tour of Zimbabwe after just one match due to the new travel policies implemented by Emirates Airlines.

Pakistan were leading the three-match 50-over series 1-0 and were due to play two further matches in Harare on February 12 and February 20.

However, following Emirates Airlines’ decision to suspend all flights to and from Harare between February 13 and February 28, Pakistan Cricket Board and Zimbabwe Cricket have opted to cancel the remaining matches. Pakistan are now due to return home on February 12.

The Pakistan men’s tour of Zimbabwe, scheduled for April, is unaffected by this decision but the PCB will continue to monitor the flight and Covid-19 situation.

Commenting on the tour’s cancellation, PCB chief executive Wasim Khan said: "It has been a difficult decision considering Zimbabwe Cricket had put in place excellent arrangements for the series.

"But the decision by the Emirates Airlines to suspend all flights to and from Harare from 13 February to 28 February has meant that we have to bring the squad back in the next 24 hours.   

"We thank Zimbabwe Cricket for their understanding and support, and hope to return at some stage to complete this additional tour."