Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Asif has suggested that the Asia Cup might be moved to either Sri Lanka or Dubai due to the political instability in Pakistan. Asif also expressed doubts about India’s acceptance of the proposed hybrid model for the Asia Cup 2023.
In an interview on the Tahir ‘The 12th Man’ YouTube channel, Asif highlighted the uncertain political situation in Pakistan and the apprehension it might create for visiting teams. He believed that the Asia Cup would be relocated to Sri Lanka or Dubai as a result.
“I don’t think it will happen. Because the political situation is not great. Any team will be a little apprehensive of coming. So, I think the Asia Cup will be shifted to Sri Lanka or Dubai,” Asif said in Tahir ‘The 12th Man’ YouTube channel.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had earlier stated that the Indian team would not travel to Pakistan due to security concerns. In response, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) made it clear that their participation in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, scheduled to be held in India, would depend on India’s participation in the Asia Cup.
The BCCI has insisted on holding the Asia Cup at a neutral venue and rejected the PCB’s proposed hybrid model, which involved matches in Pakistan during the group stage and the rest of the tournament at a neutral location. The PCB, on the other hand, is keen on hosting the event in Pakistan to demonstrate their progress in bringing international cricket back to the country.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) expressed reservations about the United Arab Emirates (UAE) being a neutral venue due to extreme heat. However, BCB’s cricket operations chairman, Jalal Yunus, stated that they would be willing to play in Dubai if the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and other members agreed.
Overall, the fate of the Asia Cup remains uncertain, with concerns over the host country, acceptance of the hybrid model, and the choice of neutral venues. The ACC’s decision will play a crucial role in determining the future of the tournament.
Also, see:
Asia Cup 2023 can happen without Pakistan: Reports
