
The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) is gearing up to announce the schedule for the highly anticipated 2023 Asia Cup some time this week as per reports. However, some last-minute changes are being considered, particularly concerning the venue for the much-awaited clash between traditional rivals India and Pakistan.
BCCI official expressed concerns about the weather and the possibility of rain affecting the crucial clash if it were to be held in Colombo. The official stated, “There are some last-minute details to go over. The tentative schedule has been shared with the members. It should be out by this week. Colombo is an issue due to the monsoon season. We would have ideally hoped for the India vs Pakistan match in Colombo, but rain could be an issue,” as quoted by Inside Sport.
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There is some uncertainty surrounding the preferred venue in Colombo due to the monsoon season, which raises concerns about potential rain affecting the India-Pakistan match. As a result, Dambulla is being contemplated as an alternative venue for the highly anticipated encounter.
As per early confirmation of ACC, the first four matches of the Asia Cup to be held in Pakistan. Following this, the tournament will shift to Sri Lanka, where nine matches, including the final, will take place. The scheduled dates for the tournament are from August 31 to September 17.
The format of the Asia Cup will remain the same as the previous two editions, featuring six teams competing in the group stage. Subsequently, four teams will qualify for the Super Four stage, leading to the final showdown.
Zaka Ashraf, the potential future chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), initially opposed the proposed hybrid model for the Asia Cup. However, he later clarified that he would honor the commitment made by the previous management.
The BCCI official confirmed that there would be no change to the hybrid model, regardless of the circumstances. They emphasized that the decision was not based on the whims of any individual, as logistical and broadcasting considerations are also taken into account.