The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly rejected the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) proposed hybrid model for the Asia Cup 2023. The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) is planning to host the tournament in Sri Lanka without Pakistan’s participation. The PCB had suggested a hybrid model where some matches would be played in Pakistan before moving to a neutral venue like the UAE or Sri Lanka for the remainder of the tournament, including the final.
However, the BCCI has expressed its preference for organizing the entire tournament in Sri Lanka, leading to the rejection of the PCB’s proposal. According to The Telegraph, the PCB will be informed at the next executive board meeting of the ACC that all other participating nations have agreed to play in Sri Lanka.
ALSO READ: DJ Bravo Opens Up About His Transition from Player to Coach At CSK
As the host nation for the Asia Cup, Pakistan will have to make a decision to either play in Sri Lanka or withdraw from the tournament. If Pakistan opts out, the Asia Cup will feature India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. The participation of a fifth team is yet to be determined for the tournament scheduled in September.
The BCCI’s firm stand on rejecting the hybrid model proposed by the PCB could have implications for Pakistan’s participation in the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023. The ICC chairman and CEO are currently in Lahore seeking assurance from Pakistan regarding their participation in the World Cup.
PCB chief Najam Sethi stated that if the Indian government allows Pakistan to play in India despite India not touring Pakistan for the Asia Cup, they would be ready to do so.
ALSO READ: Ricky Ponting Highlights Importance Of Kohli and Pujara For India in WTC Final
The BCCI remains firm on its stance for the 2023 ODI World Cup as well, insisting that Pakistan must play their matches in India and not at a neutral venue. The message sent to both the PCB and ICC is clear: “Play in India or nothing.” The ODI World Cup is scheduled for October-November later this year.
