Picture Credit: Twitter
In a big update, the cricket boards of Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Afghanistan have reportedly rejected Pakistan Cricket Board’s ‘Hybrid Model’ to host the 50-over edition of the Asia Cup 2023. The Pakistan board had earlier proposed a hybrid model to host the continental tournament, with the Asian country hosting the tournament but players would travel to neutral venue to take on India.
As reported by one of the esteemed media houses PTI, the model has been rejected which might lead to Pakistan pulling out of the tournament now. “It is just formality now that the Asian Cricket Council executive board members meet virtually, or a proper meeting is called later this month. But PCB is now aware that Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Afghanistan are not backing their hybrid model proposal for the Asia Cup,” a source was quoted by PTI.
Another journalist from PTI in a tweet revealed that the proposed model by PCB Chairman has not been accepted by the three country boards and if they play, it would be at a neutral venue now.
If reports are to be believed, this rejection of the hybrid model might see either Pakistan pulling out of the tournament, or the entire tournament being shifted to a neutral venue. “There is every possibility the Asia Cup might not be held this year because without Pakistan and India matches the broadcasters are not likely to offer the same amount, they were offering to the ACC with Pakistan included,” PTI quoted a source.
In the continental tournament which is scheduled to take place in September-October 2023, arch-rivals India and Pakistan are clubbed in the same game with Nepal occupying the last spot in Group A.
