THE Prime Minister’s XI will play Pakistan in a four-day, red-ball match at Manuka Oval, December 6-9.

“Pakistan is such a proud cricketing nation,” said Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

“I’ve previously loved watching players like Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis steaming in with the new ball, so I’m excited the PM’s XI will face the talented Pakistan squad in Canberra.

“In the coming weeks, I will meet with the national selectors to discuss what I suspect will be a strong PM’s XI.”

The first PM’s XI fixture was played in 1951 and this game will be the second under Anthony Albanese after a two-year hiatus prior to 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

It will be the third time Pakistan will face the Prime Minister’s XI after matches in 1990 and 2005, while Mr Albanese is the 10th Prime Minister to lead the team.

Chair of selectors George Bailey said:
”The timing of the match comes at an important stage of the summer with five home Tests and two away in NZ.

“We’ve seen some strong individual performances to start the Sheffield Shield season and with another round left before the squad will be selected, we are looking forward to seeing players continue to put their hands up for selection.

“Opportunities to face international opposition like this are rare and taken seriously, and as such we are looking to select a strong and highly talented squad.”

Tickets are on sale.