Hectic winter scheduled in sub-continent

ENGLAND are set for a busier-than-expected winter programme after confirming they are planning to play Pakistan in an away Test and limited overs series early next year.

The England and Wales Cricket Board released a working schedule yesterday confirming they will travel to play Pakistan in three Tests and an unspecified number of one-day games, thought to be five, in January and February.

It is understood those matches will be played in Sri Lanka, where England are subsequently due to meet the island nation in two Tests from March until early April.

England are also already scheduled to fly to the sub-continent in October to play India in five one-day internationals and a Twenty20. That will mean England will play five Tests, ten one-day internationals and one Twenty20 over the winter - a schedule that, while not as demanding as last year's Ashes tour, which was followed by the World Cup, will still see England on their travels for a large part.

ECB chairman Giles Clarke also confirmed that an unscheduled two-match Twenty20 series against West Indies is likely to be tagged on to the end of the summer programme. Clarke revealed broadcasting obligations had played a part in forcing the ECB to schedule the brief series, which he believe will help new skipper Stuart Broad prepare for next year's World Twenty20.

"There are several separate issues here," said Clarke. "We have a contractual commitment to Sky and BBC. We have said we are interested in more preparation for the Twenty20 World Cup. The new captain would benefit from more opportunity to captain."

Clarke also said the matches would help the ailing finances of the West Indies Cricket Board, hinting also that the series could be held annually.