Asian Cup fate likely to be decided on May 28: report

The fate of the Asian Cup has hung in the balance since BCCI refused to travel to Pakistan for the tournament. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the designated hosts of the Asian Cup, have submitted multiple hybrid models to the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and multiple reports have surfaced indicating that such a model would be accepted for the tournament. Meanwhile, many things related to the Asian Cup are likely to be finalized during the upcoming IPL 2023 final to be played on Sunday (May 28).

The Board of Control of Cricket in India (BCCI) invited the directors of Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) to honor their presence during the final of the IPL. According to Cricbuzz reports, it is believed that there might be an announcement regarding the Asian Cup after the meeting between the Asian boards ahead of the IPL final.

“The respective presidents of the cricket boards of Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka will honor the Tata IPL 2023 final which will be held on 28 May at the Narendra Modi Stadium. We will hold talks with them to outline the future course of action in relationship with Asia. Cup 2023,” BCCI secretary and ACC head Jay Shah said.

The report further adds that the hybrid model of around four matches in Pakistan and half-time at the other venue is accepted, but the main point of contention is over the second venue. There has been a standoff between PCB and other Asian boards with the designated hosts wanting to play matches in the United Arab Emirates. But players like BCB and SLC have raised concerns about the hot weather in the desert country in September, when the Asian Cup is scheduled.

It remains to be seen if the Asian boards reach any conclusion on the Asian Cup at Sunday’s meeting.

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