Asia Cup 2023: In what has been the latest development as per the reports in the ESPNCricinfo, it is learned that new Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Zaka Ashraf has quashed off all the rumours related to him rejecting the hybrid model of the Asia Cup 2023.
Zaka Ashraf has confirmed that Asia Cup will go as per the hybrid model and there will be no change to it. This comes after the reports in the media hogged the headlines that he has rejected his predecessor Najam Sethi’s “hybrid model” for the tournament, stating that the model isn’t justified as the tournament should be completely held in Pakistan.
The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) recently accepted the hybrid model proposed by the PCB. The tournament will be played from 31st August to 17th September in Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Out of 13 games, 4 games will take place in Pakistan whereas 9 games will be played in Sri Lanka.
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The hybrid model came into place after BCCI said that they won’t send the Indian team to Pakistan, citing security issues. The cricket governing bodies of both nations engaged in quite a few arguments but it ultimately led to the hybrid model and the Asia Cup 2023 will serve as an ideal preparation for all the teams for the World Cup.
Asia Cup 2023: “I am elated that our hybrid version for the ACC Asia Cup 2023 has been accepted,” then PCB chief Najam Sethi expresses his delight in the hybrid model being accepted
Then PCB Chairman Najam Sethi was delighted after ACC accepted the hybrid model. Speaking in an official statement, he said:
“I am elated that our hybrid version for the ACC Asia Cup 2023 has been accepted. This means the PCB will remain as the event host and stage matches in Pakistan with Sri Lanka as the neutral venue, which was required due to the Indian cricket team’s inability to travel to Pakistan
“Our passionate fans would have loved to see the India cricket team in action in Pakistan for the first time in 15 years, but we understand the BCCI’s position. Like the PCB, the BCCI also requires government approval and clearance before crossing borders.”
Six teams have been divided into two groups with three teams each. India and Pakistan are placed in Group A along with Nepal whereas Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Afghanistan are placed in Group B.