In a significant move for cricket fans around the world, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary, Jay Shah, and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chief, Zaka Ashraf, reportedly met in South Africa to discuss the upcoming Asia Cup 2023.
Following the meeting, it was officially shown that the much-anticipated battle between India and Pakistan will take place in Sri Lanka, as the Indian squad opted not to make the trip to Pakistan for the matches.
During this important meeting, the arrangements and schedule of the Asia Cup were finalized, as both cricket bodies attempt to guarantee a successful and unforgettable event.
The ACC is yet to make a formal announcement, although the tournament is scheduled to begin on August 31 in Pakistan and finish on September 17 in Sri Lanka.
Arun Dhumal, the IPL Chairman, confirmed the news and disproved rumours about Shah’s arrival to Pakistan for the first leg of the competition. Dhumal stated that the Asia Cup will be held in Pakistan for four league matches before heading to Sri Lanka for the second leg.
“Our secretary met PCB head Zaka Ashraf, and the Asia Cup schedule was finalized, aligning with our previous discussions. Four league stage matches will be played in Pakistan, followed by nine matches in Sri Lanka, including the much-awaited India versus Pakistan encounter and, potentially, a third game if both the teams make it to the final,” stated Dhumal.
Contrary to what many believe, Dhumal verified that there had been no discussions about India’s visit to Pakistan, ensuring fans that the choice to hold the match in Sri Lanka was taken purely on the basis of the finalized schedule.
Asia Cup 2023 IND vs PAK match to take place in Dambulla
According to reports, a renowned battle between India and Pakistan would be held in Dambulla. The Babar Azam-led Pakistan team, on the other hand, will be playing their only home game against Nepal, with the other three matches could include Afghanistan vs Bangladesh, Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka, and Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan.
While the Asia Cup talks were successful, the same could not be claimed for the upcoming ODI World Cup. Pakistan continues to push for a venue change, voicing concerns about playing India at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. A Pakistani special team is scheduled to visit India in late August to assess the venue before making a final decision on the subject.
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