In exclusive remarks made to PakPassion.net, the Chairman of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Zaka Ashraf has confirmed that both Karachi and Multan are being considered to host next month's domestic T20 tournament and that a decision from the cricket committee on the venue is imminent.

By Saj Sadiq (12th November, 2012)

In exclusive remarks made to PakPassion.net, the Chairman of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Zaka Ashraf has confirmed that both Karachi and Multan are being considered to host next month's domestic T20 tournament and that a decision from the cricket committee on the venue is imminent.

The tournament is seen in Pakistan as having extra importance this time around, given that it will be held just before the Pakistan team leaves for the high profile tour of India that incorporates two T20Is and three one day internationals. The first T20I in India is on 25th December with the final one day international to be played on 6th January 2013 in Delhi.

After a "mixed" performance at the World T20 in Sri Lanka, which saw Pakistan knocked out in the semi finals, the selectors will be closely monitoring performances at the tournament ahead of the series in India and Ashraf explained that it was vital that the logistics were perfect for the competition.

"Both Multan and Karachi are being considered to host next month's domestic T20 tournament. The cricket committee whose role it is to decide the venue are looking at both options and it's vital that the correct option is chosen particularly as the competition is shortly before the series in India" stated Ashraf.

Ashraf explained that several factors had to be considered by the cricket committee before a final decision on the venue is reached and stated "There are a number of factors that need to be taken into account before we announce the venue, such as the weather and we also have to consider the Islamic month of Muharram. The committee have been entrusted with the task and I expect they will reach a decision in the next two to three days."

Whilst the venue is yet to be finalised, the commencement date and the end date according to the Chairman have now been decided.

"The commencement date of the domestic T20 tournament will be 2nd December and it is expected to run through to 10th December. The tournament in the past has been very successful and very popular. It has also given emerging talent to come to the fore and we hope that we will see some wonderful cricket" added Ashraf.

Fourteen regional teams are expected to compete in the tournament which is hugely popular amongst Pakistani cricket fans and players alike. Previous tournaments have been played in front of packed houses in a fantastic family friendly atmosphere, with a carnival like feel to the tournament and the PCB will once again be hoping that whether the tournament is held in Karachi or Multan it proves to be a success.

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