ACC chief gives a weird reason for choosing Sri Lanka as Asia Cup 2023 venue

 

Potential Venue Change for Asia Cup 2023 Matches in Sri Lanka Due to Rain Concerns

In the wake of a rain-affected Pakistan vs. India clash on September 2 in Kandy, Sri Lanka, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) is contemplating relocating match venues due to concerns about the unpredictable weather in Colombo, as per sources reported by Geo News on Monday.

This development emerged following discussions between Zaka Ashraf, Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Management Committee, and ACC President Jay Shah. The aim is to safeguard the forthcoming archrivalry match in Colombo from potential weather disruptions.

Rain played a spoil-sport on Saturday, dashing the high hopes of fans eagerly anticipating the Asia Cup 2023 match between Pakistan and India. However, despite not having to bat as the run chase was halted due to persistent showers, the Green Shirts secured a spot in the Super 4s thanks to a successful day in the field.

Expressing concerns about the unpredictable tropical island climate, Ashraf apprised Shah of the likelihood of further rain in Sri Lanka and the favorable weather conditions prevailing in Pakistan for an uninterrupted tournament. "Asia Cup is a prestigious tournament and should remain impervious to rain," emphasized the PCB chief.

In response, Shah has assured that the situation will be given due consideration.

Today, Geo News has learned from its sources about discussions concerning the possibility of relocating matches away from Colombo due to adverse weather conditions. This situation has put ACC, PCB, and Sri Lanka Cricket in a quandary, casting a shadow over the grand Asian tournament.

Sources indicate that the decision to move matches will be on the agenda in an emergency ACC meeting, given the forecast of more rain in the Sri Lankan capital. A verdict on the relocation is anticipated within the next 24 to 36 hours, as per reliable sources. Pakistan has voiced its apprehensions regarding the situation's impact on the game.

Simultaneously, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with the accommodations provided to the Indian team in Dambulla city. According to sources, the BCCI raised concerns about the subpar quality of hotels in Dambulla, and broadcasters have also voiced objections about hotel arrangements in Hambantota, a Sri Lankan city with more favorable weather conditions.

Despite the draw in the September 2 match, Pakistan has advanced to the Super 4s stage, commencing their Asia Cup 2023 campaign with a resounding 238-run victory over Nepal last Wednesday.

Meanwhile, this marked India's inaugural match in the tournament, making their clash with Nepal a must-win encounter. Given the format of the Asia Cup, another face-off between the archrivals on September 10 is likely.