The proposal for a ‘Hybrid Model’ in conducting four non-India Asia Cup games in Pakistan, while the remaining matches take place in Sri Lanka’s Galle and Pallekele, is likely to be accepted by the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), headed by BCCI president Jay Shah.
Also Read: Asia Cup 2023: Pakistan Contemplates Withdrawal from Asia Cup Amid Rejection of ‘Hybrid Model’
A formal announcement is expected on Tuesday, which would pave the way for the Pakistan team’s travel to India for the ODI World Cup scheduled in October-November. Consequently, Pakistan will have no issues playing in Ahmedabad.
An ACC board member, speaking on the condition of anonymity, revealed that Pankaj Khimji, the chief of the Oman Cricket Board and a respected member of the ACC executive board, was entrusted with finding a solution as most countries were opposed to the Hybrid Model.
However, as of now, the Gadaffi Stadium in Lahore will host four non-India games: Pakistan vs. Nepal, Bangladesh vs. Afghanistan, Afghanistan vs. Sri Lanka, and Sri Lanka vs. Bangladesh. The two India vs. Pakistan games and all other Super Four Games will take place in either Pallekele or Galle.
The Asia Cup is expected to be played in September. Following a meeting between ICC CEO Geoff Allardice, chairman Greg Barclay, and Najam Sethi, the chairman of the PCB, it was decided that Pakistan would not set any conditions for their participation in the World Cup, provided four games are held in their country as they possess the hosting rights.
Excluding Pakistan from the tournament would have meant a reduction in the amount committed by broadcasters due to the absence of two assured Indo-Pak games, with the possibility of a third if both teams reach the final. The suggested course of action seemed to be the most practical one, allowing Pakistan to visit India without any restrictions while the anxiously awaited ODI World Cup schedule would be made public early the next week.
Pakistan’s World Cup matches may be played in Chennai and Hyderabad, while India is anticipated to play Pakistan in Ahmedabad.