Pakistan’s much-awaited Asia Cup 2023 campaign is all set to kick off with a high-octane clash against Nepal on Wednesday, August 30. The tournament, which will be hosted in Pakistan and Sri Lanka, will feature an exciting Hybrid format after India’s decision to abstain from playing on Pakistani soil.
The inaugural match will be held at the Multan Cricket Ground in Multan, Pakistan, where the hosts, led by Captain Babar Azam, will aim to make a resounding start in front of their home crowd.
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However, cricket fans will be delighted to know that despite the political constraints, the iconic India vs Pakistan rivalry will not be compromised. All India-Pakistan encounters will take place in Sri Lanka, keeping the thrill alive and ensuring that cricket fans around the world can witness these high-stakes battles.
Pakistan’s final Group A match will see them face off against their arch-rivals India at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy on September 2. Should they advance to the Super 4 stage, their next matches will be held in Lahore and Colombo.
The tournament format brings some interesting scenarios. If Pakistan qualifies for the Super 4 round, they will occupy the A1 spot, regardless of their position in Group A. On the other hand, India will take the A2 spot if they qualify, even if they top Group A. Meanwhile, Nepal’s performance will determine which spot they take in the Super 4 round, potentially displacing India or Pakistan from the competition.
The Super 4 stage promises intense cricketing action, with Pakistan’s first match scheduled against the runner-up from Group B, either Bangladesh or Afghanistan, at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on September 6. Subsequently, on September 10, they will lock horns with India in Colombo, followed by a crucial match against the winner of Group B on September 14.
Also See: Pakistan Cricket Schedule | Asia Cup Schedule
Speaking about Group B, regardless of their final standings after the first-round group stage, Sri Lanka will secure the B1 spot, and Bangladesh will take the B2 spot if they both qualify for the Super 4. However, if Afghanistan outperforms them, they will replace the worst-performing team in Group B.
Pakistan’s 2023 Asia Cup 2023 Fixtures
Date | Day | Fixture | Venue |
August 30 | Wednesday | Pakistan vs Nepal | Multan |
September 2 | Saturday | India vs Pakistan | Kandy |
September 6 | Wednesday | A1 vs B2 | Lahore |
September 10 | Sunday | A1 vs A2 | Colombo |
September 14 | Thursday | A1 vs B1 | Colombo |
September 17 | Sunday | Final | Colombo |