Asia Cup
Asia Cup.

Given the political unpredictability in Sri Lanka and the most recent developments, the future of the Asia Cup appears to be shifting day by day. There are strong signs that the UAE may receive the six-team continental tournament instead of the island nation.

There have been attempts to move the 16-day event, according to information gathered from various Asian Cricket Council (ACC) member boards.

Asian Cricket Council
Asian Cricket Council. Image: Twitter

There may have been discussions between the ACC and the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) in the United Arab Emirates. The SLC is kept informed, and it is anticipated that the championship will take place from August 26 to September 11 at the previously announced dates.

President of Asian Cricket Council- Jay Shah (Image Credits: Twitter)
President of Asian Cricket Council- Jay Shah (Image Credits: Twitter)

When the Lanka board decided to host the SLC two weeks ago under duress from the government, the situation was different from what it is now. But since last week, when the country’s president fled and a new one was elected, things have significantly shifted. Violent rallies against the political elite have brought the nation to a boil.

“In such a case, it is felt that hosting the championship is not appropriate,” an ACC member told Cricbuzz on Saturday (July 16).

‘Our first preference is to support Sri Lanka and play the Asia Cup there’: PCB

On Saturday morning, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) released a statement that seemed to suggest a different scenario. “Sri Lanka is our first preference to support and host the Asia Cup. It would be a major sporting and economical loss for Sri Lanka if this competition did not take place there. The recent Australian visit to Sri Lanka went off without a hitch.

Faisal Hasnain
Faisal Hasnain. Image Credits: Twitter

“The ongoing Pakistan tour of Sri Lanka has also gone off without a hitch since we are in close contact with Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) and our embassy there. Our conversations with ACC representatives have indicated that the competition is currently on track as they are closely monitoring the issue, and we will back their choice “PCB CEO Faisal Hasnain stated.

Read More  Watch: Shreyas Iyer a paper captain? KKR skipper left confused over playing XI, leads to hilarious incident at toss

The Asia Cup will be held from August 27 to September 11.

Also Read: Virat Kohli Expected To Stay Back In England After White-Ball Series – Reports