Xtra Time Web Desk: Due to heavy rains in Colombo, the Asian Cricket Council is considering relocating the Super 4 stages of the ongoing Asia Cup 2023. Dambulla is being considered as an alternate venue to stage the matches. Initially, Sri Lanka Cricket had proposed Dambulla as the second venue, given its dry climate in the central part of the country. However, due to concerns from broadcasters and teams about traveling to Dambulla, Pallekele and Colombo were chosen as venues.
Unfortunately, both Pallekele and Colombo have experienced heavy rainfall over the past five days due to the monsoon season. Even the recent India-Pakistan Group A match in Pallekele was washed out. While there was hope that the weather might improve in Colombo, the Asian Cricket Council is now reconsidering a change in venue due to the unfavorable weather forecast. Sri Lanka typically avoids hosting matches in September beyond the first week due to wet conditions.
With two more matches remaining in Pakistan, the ACC is expected to make a final decision on the venue within the next 24-48 hours. However, hosting the tournament in Pallekele also carries the risk of rain, adding to the dilemma faced by the organizers.
The ongoing Asia Cup, held in a hybrid model in Pakistan and Sri Lanka, is approaching its crucial Super 4 stage scheduled to begin next week.