NEW DELHI: In a significant development for cricket diplomacy, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) President Roger Binny has confirmed his visit to Pakistan during the Asia Cup 2023.
Binny will attend an official dinner hosted by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in Lahore. The dinner is set to commemorate Pakistan’s hosting of the prestigious Asia Cup tournament. The BCCI Vice President, Rajiv Shukla, will accompany Binny on the tour, with the pair expected to arrive in Pakistan on September 4.
In addition to the official dinner, Binny and Shukla are likely to attend a match at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium during their two-day visit, as reported by ESPNCricinfo. The PCB extended an official invitation to the top officials of the BCCI, including the president and vice president, which was accepted by both dignitaries.
Asia Cup Matches in Pakistan
Talking about the upcoming visit, Binny expressed his eagerness to promote friendly cricket relations, stating, “I have no hesitation in going to Pakistan. My visits to Pakistan were always memorable, Pakistanis are very hospitable.” He further expressed his hope that the visit would contribute positively to the cricket ties between the two cricketing giants.
Binny also emphasized the significance of matches between India and Pakistan, comparing them to the renowned Ashes series. “Matches between Pakistan and India are important for cricket,” he remarked, highlighting the immense attention and excitement that these encounters generate.
The Asia Cup 2023 is set to commence with a group stage featuring matches between Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, India, and Afghanistan. The super four stage will then lead up to the final.