COLOMBO: The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) is reportedly planning to shift the hosting of the Asia Cup 2023 from Pakistan to Sri Lanka, according to Indian media reports. The decision comes after India expressed concerns about traveling to Pakistan, the original host country for the tournament.
In an informal meeting, the ACC members voted in favor of Sri Lanka as an ideal destination to host this year’s Asia Cup. Sri Lanka, along with Bangladesh and Afghanistan, supported India’s stance on not playing in Pakistan and agreed to hold the tournament in the Island nation. A final decision is likely to be announced by the end of this month.
If the Asia Cup is moved, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) may consider boycotting the event. The PCB had proposed a hybrid model, suggesting that only India’s matches be hosted in Dubai.
However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) rejected this proposal, citing concerns from other member boards and broadcasters. Additionally, there are reservations about playing in the UAE due to the extremely hot weather.
Sri Lankan cities likely to host Asia Cup
Among the Sri Lankan cities under consideration to host the tournament are Pallekele and Dambulla. The Asia Cup 2023 will be played in the 50-over format, providing teams with an opportunity to prepare for the upcoming ICC World Cup in India.
Meanwhile, the PCB is preparing a backup plan in case the Asia Cup is canceled or India organizes a five-nation tournament as a replacement. In such a scenario, Pakistan aims to play triangular or bilateral series to prepare for the ICC World Cup.
The PCB has reportedly reached out to different cricket boards, with South Africa, Zimbabwe, Ireland, and West Indies being considered for series during the Asia Cup window.
According to the Future Tours Programme (FTP), South Africa and Zimbabwe are available during the September window for the Asia Cup. South Africa is scheduled to host Australia from August 30 to September 17 for five ODIs and three T20Is.
After September 17, South Africa will have no commitments until the World Cup in India. Zimbabwe also has no scheduled series in September, as they will be participating in the World Cup qualifiers at home in June-July.
Australia, New Zealand, and England have busy schedules during the Asia Cup window, while Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan would be occupied with India’s potential five-nation tournament.
