With a view to standardise pitches across the country, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has hired the services of renowned curator Andy Atkinson.

Atkinson's first task was the inspection of Karachi's National Stadium. Following Karachi, Atkinson is scheduled to visit Rawalpindi, Multan and Lahore which will host matches in the fifth edition of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) starting in February this year.

Following the inspection of pitches in different cricket grounds, a report will be sent to the PCB detailing the problems and suggestions aimed at improving the quality of pitches as per ICC's standards.

During his stay here, Atkinson will impart training to local curators, said a PCB spokesman.