The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has given its nod to the hybrid model proposed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for the Asia Cup 2023. In a significant development, it has been announced that the tournament will be divided into two phases, with Pakistan hosting the initial phase and Sri Lanka taking over for the later stages, including the knockout matches and the final. The much-anticipated event, scheduled to be played in the 50-over format, will span from August 31 to September 17.
The Asia Cup will feature six prominent cricketing nations, namely Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and Nepal. Notably, this tournament will mark Nepal’s debut in an Asian cricket event, further highlighting the growing significance of cricket in the region. The competition will serve as a vital platform for the Asian teams to fine-tune their skills and strategies ahead of the ICC World Cup, to be held in India.
Are you ready, Pakistan? Asia Cup is coming! pic.twitter.com/q9Hq99b41H
— Najam Sethi (@najamsethi) June 15, 2023
Except for Sri Lanka and Nepal, all the participating teams have secured their places in the mega event through the qualification process. However, last year, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) declined to travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup due to political reasons, presenting a challenge for the event’s hosting rights.
To salvage the tournament, the PCB proposed a hybrid model comprising two options. The first option suggested that India play their matches at a neutral venue, while the remaining matches would be held in Pakistan. The second option, which has now been accepted, entails hosting the group stage matches in Pakistan during the first phase and then shifting the remaining matches, including those featuring the Indian team and the knockout stages, to a neutral venue in Sri Lanka.
The complete schedule for the Asia Cup 2023 is expected to be announced soon, generating excitement among cricket enthusiasts across the continent. As Pakistan and Sri Lanka gear up to showcase their cricketing prowess and provide a thrilling spectacle, fans eagerly anticipate witnessing top-class cricket and fierce rivalries unfold during this prestigious tournament.
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