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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Australian Cricket Board (ACB) are still engaged in discussion on the number of Tests to be played during the forthcoming October.

According to schedule, Australia are due in Pakistan between Oct 1 and 24 during which they will play three Tests. However, sources said the Australian trio which visited Pakistan last month for pre-tour checks, has insisted on playing two Tests between Oct 1 and 18.

Sources said Tim May, chief executive of the Australian Cricketers Association (ACA), told the PCB officials that the players were not prepared to extend their visit in Pakistan beyond Oct 18.

May, sources continued, further informed the PCB that the Australian cricketers were demanding appropriate time to prepare for the first Ashes Test against England starting Nov 8.

May, is also said to have told Pakistan officials that Australia would compensate for the two Tests by appearing in the triangular series in Pakistan prior to the ICC Champions Trophy scheduled between Sept 12 and 30.

The PCB director, Brig Munawwar Rana, admitted from Rawalpindi that the number of Tests had not been decided. "We are still in discussion stages. But we are hopeful that Australia will agree to play three Tests.

"I am expecting the confirmation of number of Tests by next week after which we will immediately release the itinerary," he said.

The PCB official added that the tentative tour itinerary has been prepared, but said it is not yet final, it could be changed.

Rana pointed out that PCB had reportedly agreed to participate in the tri-nation one-day series in Pakistan, tentatively scheduled between Aug 27 and Sept 7 at Karachi and Lahore.

New Zealand will be the third participating team.

© Dawn