There are rumours that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has threatened to cancel the next two-match Test series against Sri Lanka in June if Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) decides to reject the proposed hybrid model for the upcoming 2023 Asia Cup.
The hybrid model predicts that the Asia Cup will be divided into two phases, with the first taking place in Pakistan and the second at a neutral location.
The fact that India would only participate in the second phase and not play in Pakistan is one of the main features of this strategy. The purpose of this agreement is to reduce political tensions between the neighbouring nations.
The seriousness of the situation and Pakistan’s commitment to hosting the 2023 Asia Cup, at least in part, can be seen in their threat to pull out of the Test series against Sri Lanka.
The PCB is unhappy with Sri Lanka’s purported opposition to the idea, underscoring the importance of pragmatism and compassion in such delicate situations.
It will be interesting to see how things play out and whether a solution can be found that pleases everyone. However, this incident highlights the difficulties in staging international cricket matches as well as the delicate balancing act needed to deal with geopolitical difficulties while maintaining the integrity of the game.
Prior to the ODI World Cup in India beginning in September of 2023, the Asia Cup is scheduled to take place. Pakistan has said that if they are denied the opportunity to host the Asia Cup, they will not take part in the big event.