Australia will take part in the tri-nations limited overs series involving Pakistan but New Zealandhave pulled out, with stand-in hosts Kenya the likely replacements.

According to Chisty Mujahid, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) director, the tournament will almost certainly be played in Nairobi from August 27 to September 7. The recent spate of violence in Pakistan forced the PCB's hand and Kenya stepped in as an alternative venue. The Australian Cricket Board (ACB) has confirmed its participation, but New Zealand have declined despite the change of venue.

Speaking to a news agency, Mujahid said, "New Zealand Cricket Board has conveyed to us their inability to take part in the tri-nation series. The Australian Cricket Board has given their confirmation and we might invite Kenya as the third team. In a way it's disappointing that New Zealand is not coming because Australia, Pakistan and New Zealand playing a one-day tournament is a great attraction."

Australia's three-Test tour of Pakistan, scheduled for October, is still under discussion. Post September 11th, both West Indies and Sri Lanka refused to tour Pakistan and New Zealand tour in May was called off midway through after a devastating bomb blast close to the team hotel.

© Wisden CricInfo Ltd