Xtra Time Web Desk: If Babar Azam and his boys reach the semi-final of the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, they will play at the Eden Gardens. Pakistan will play in Kolkata irrespective if they draw India in the semi-final. If India qualifies for the semifinals, they will play in Mumbai unless playing against Pakistan, in which case they will play in Kolkata
With the announcement of the Cricket World Cup schedule on Tuesday, there is still a lingering question whether Pakistan will play against India in Ahmedabad. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has already made it clear that they will not play until and unless they get an approval from Pakistan Government. During the 2016 T20 World Cup they did not play against India in Dharamsala citing security reasons. The match was ultimately moved to Kolkata. Will there be a repeat this time round?
The PCB soon after the announcement has issued the following release. It said, The PCB requires the Government of Pakistan’s clearance for any tour to India, including the match venues. We are liaising with our government for guidance, and as soon as we hear something from them, we will update the Event Authority (ICC). This position is consistent to what we had told the ICC a couple of weeks ago when they shared with us the draft schedule and sought our feedback.
The PCB is likely to send a security delegation to India to inspect the venues. That’s what had happened in 2016 also. To make an informed decision we will need to do this close to date so around end August early September. Only after the delegation gives it report can the government take the final decision.”
So, it is safe to state that the schedule, which has been announced today could see a final twist if PCB decides to push its way. And that will only happen when the tournament will be a month away make such a decision a real organisational nightmare.