Karachi, Jun 26 (IANS) The Pakistan men's cricket team will participate in a tri-nation series in New Zealand before the start of the T20 World Cup, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ramiz Raja confirmed on Sunday.

He added that the series will be excellent preparation for the conditions they will encounter in Australia during the T20 World Cup.

A tri-nation series consisting of hosts New Zealand, Pakistan and Bangladesh was planned before the T20 World Cup scheduled in Australia in October this year. Talking to the media, PCB chairman Raja confirmed the participation of the Babar Azam-led side in the tournament in New Zealand.

"Before the 1992 World Cup, the side had arrived in Australia a month ago and we had ample opportunity to prepare for matches by playing against the local teams," Raja said.

"I was behind PCB's international department to somehow find a way that our team can play six to seven games before the World Cup. The pitches in New Zealand also have bounce and pace, the side will benefit from playing matches there," he added.

It is expected that the tri-nation competition will start in the first week of October where teams will play twice with each other before the final of the competition.

Notably, Pakistan will also host England in September for seven T20Is. The series is expected to start on September 15.