Pakistan's plan for Windies Tests in Abu Dhabi fails

DISAPPOINTED MAN: File photo of Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Nasim Ashraf. (AFP)

Pakistan's plans to give its cricket-starved team two Tests failed Tuesday after the West Indies said they were too short of time.

There was a proposal for the Tests to follow next month's three-match one-day series between the two sides in Abu Dhabi.

"We have received an e-mail in which the West Indies Cricket Board has said that they are unable to accept the two-Test invitation because the time is too short for the series," Pakistan Cricket Board director general Salim Altaf said.

However the two countries will play three one-day internationals in Abu Dhabi on November 12, 14 and 16.

Pakistan have not played a single Test this year after Australia postponed their tour to the troubled country over security fears in March.

The West Indies had refused to tour Pakistan for two Tests over security fears but had initially considered the two-Test invitation when Pakistan suggested a neutral venue.

Altaf however raised hopes that the two Test series could be held next year.

"We are going to meet the West Indian officials during the International Cricket Council meeting in December, where we will see whether the proposed two Test matches can be slotted in some time next year," said Altaf.

The cancellation means Pakistan's next chance to play a Test comes against arch-rivals India early next year. Pakistan hosts India for three Tests, five one-days and one Twenty20 from January to February.

Altaf said the PCB is "now concentrating on hosting India early next year".

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