The Australian team will tour Pakistan in March-April next year to play three Tests, three One-Day Internationals and a Twenty20 Intetnational, Pakistan Cricket Board announced on Monday. Australia are set to end a 24-year absence from Pakistan, having last toured the country in 1998. “It pleases me no end that we’ll be engaged in a three-Test match series, connoisseurs delight,” PCB chairman Ramiz Raja said in a statement.

“Australia are one of the high-performing sides and them playing in our backyard for the first time after a gap of 24 years will be a special treat for the fans.

“Likewise, it will be a great opportunity for the Australia cricketers to not only play at our iconic venues but also feel and enjoy the respect, love and hospitality that this great country offers, something which most of their previous generation of cricketers missed out by playing offshore.”