Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has made a significant announcement regarding the upcoming Asia Cup, expressing their willingness to host the tournament in their own country if assigned to do so. The decision comes ahead of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) meeting, where a resolution on the matter is expected.
Currently, the Asia Cup is scheduled to be held in Pakistan. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has firmly stated that the Indian team will not travel to Pakistan due to security concerns. This stance by the BCCI has faced criticism from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and former Pakistani cricketers, who have even threatened to boycott the subsequent ODI World Cup, set to take place in India after the Asia Cup.
According to reports, the PCB has proposed a hybrid model in which India could play their matches at a neutral venue, while the rest of the tournament would be held in Pakistan. However, the BCCI has insisted that the entire tournament be moved to a neutral venue.
Amidst this ongoing dispute, a high-ranking SLC official confirmed to Cricbuzz on Monday that “SLC is ready to host the Asia Cup at short notice. The final decision lies with the ACC.” The official added, “We will go with the BCCI.”
The report also stated that the PCB is not receiving support from other ACC members. Last week, we reported that SLC President Shammi Silva would be visiting India for the IPL playoffs and the final, during which he would hold discussions with BCCI officials regarding the Asia Cup controversy.
Meanwhile, senior International Cricket Council (ICC) officials have traveled to Pakistan to ensure the country’s participation in this year’s 50-overs World Cup in India.
BCCI Secretary Jay Shah, who is also the Chairman of the Asian Cricket Council, is expected to announce the dates and venue for the Asia Cup this week. The dates and venues for the World Cup, scheduled for October-November, will be revealed after the World Test Championship (WTC) final in London starting from June 7.
