Senior officials from the International Cricket Council (ICC) have traveled to Pakistan in an effort to ensure the country’s participation in the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023, which is scheduled to take place in India. The participation of Pakistan in the tournament has been in doubt due to political tensions between India and Pakistan.
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Bilateral cricket matches between the two neighboring countries have been severely impacted over the past decade due to strained relations. The two nations now engage in cricket matches against each other exclusively in multi-team events held at neutral venues. In a recent development, India has declined to tour Pakistan for the Asia Cup scheduled for September and has insisted on holding the entire tournament in a neutral country. In response, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has threatened to boycott the World Cup in India if their proposal to host at least some Asia Cup matches on home soil is not accepted.
ODI World Cup 2023: ICC Chairman Travels to Pakistan
To address the situation and find a resolution, ICC Chairman Greg Barclay and CEO Geoff Allardice have traveled to Lahore, Pakistan. During their two-day visit, they are scheduled to meet with Najam Sethi, the chairman of the PCB, and other cricket officials. The discussions aim to find a mutually agreeable solution and ensure Pakistan’s participation in the World Cup.
Wasim Khan, the General Manager of the ICC, addressed the ongoing discussions during a virtual press conference, stating that it is currently a matter for the two countries and the ICC hierarchy to reach a conclusion. The outcome of the talks between the officials from Pakistan and the ICC will play a crucial role in determining Pakistan’s participation in the prestigious tournament.
Meanwhile, Jay Shah, the Secretary of the Indian cricket board, is leading the Asian Cricket Council, which is expected to announce the dates and venue for the Asia Cup in the coming week. The announcement of the World Cup’s dates and venues, scheduled for October-November, will follow the conclusion of the World Test Championship final in London, starting on June 7.
As cricket fans eagerly await the decisions regarding both the Asia Cup and the World Cup, the discussions between the ICC officials and the PCB carry significant importance in resolving the political obstacles and ensuring the smooth progress of the tournaments.
