According to reports, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has declined the hybrid model proposed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for the Asia Cup 2023. It is said that the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) is making preparations to hold the Asia Cup without Pakistan, with Sri Lanka being chosen as the host country for the tournament scheduled in September.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) put forth a proposal for a hybrid model for the Asia Cup 2023, suggesting that 4-5 matches could be held in Pakistan before moving to a neutral venue like the UAE or Sri Lanka for the remainder of the tournament, including the final.
However, according to reports, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has expressed its preference for organizing the entire tournament at a single venue, namely Sri Lanka. Consequently, they have outrightly rejected the hybrid model proposed by the PCB.
According to a report in The Telegraph, during the next executive board meeting of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) will be informed that all other participating nations have agreed to play the Asia Cup 2023 in Sri Lanka. As the host nation, Pakistan will then need to decide whether to participate in the tournament in Sri Lanka or withdraw from the prestigious event.
If Pakistan chooses to withdraw, the teams competing in the Asia Cup will be India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. The participation of a fifth team is yet to be confirmed for the tournament, scheduled to take place in September.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has taken a firm stance by rejecting the PCB’s hybrid model proposal. This rejection may prompt Pakistan to contemplate drastic measures regarding their participation in the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023. Currently, ICC chairman Greg Barclay and CEO Geoff Allardice are in Lahore, seeking assurance from Pakistan regarding their involvement in the World Cup.