Xtra Time Web Desk: In a big development the upcoming Asia Cup 2023 event is likely to be shifted from Pakistan to Sri Lanka. The decision to shift the event from Pakistan was on cards as the PCB was adamant of hosting the tournament in a hybrid model. BCCI had already made it clear they will not send the team to Pakistan for the Asia Cup. Pakistan Cricket Board is mulling the idea of boycotting the event.
According to a report in Indian Express, a final decision on the venue is expected by the end of this month with Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Afghanistan backing the move to host the event in the island nation.
There were suggestions to hold the tournament in UAE but it is unlikely to happen as the other boards are not willing to travel in the Gulf region, a month before the 50 overs World Cup. In a recent meeting among the Asian Cricket Council members, Oman Cricket Association offered to host the tournament. But most of the members decided in favour of hosting the event in Sri Lanka.
Dubai hosted the 2018 edition of the Asia Cup in September, but the conditions were extremely challenging for the players. Keeping in mind the 50 overs starting from October, most of the member boards decided against hosting the event in UAE or Oman.
With Sri Lanka Cricket expressing their interest to host the event, the Asian Cricket Council members have decided among themselves to host the event in the island nation. In case the event is staged in the emerald isle, the matches might be played at Dambulla and Pallekele.
According to reports in Pakistan, if the Asia Cup is moved from the country, the PCB may not participate in the event. If they end up skipping that tournament, it will put a question mark on their participation in the World Cup too, which is set to be hosted by India in October-November.
If Pakistan confirms its participation, the Asia Cup would be a six-team event. Apart from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Afghanistan, Nepal have qualified for the tournament by winning the ACC’s Premier Cup.