After attending the IPL 2023 final, one of the Sri Lanka Cricket’s officials has reportedly batted for Indian Cricket Board’s stance. The Indian Board has rejected the idea of a Hybrid Model as it involves choosing Asia Cup 2023‘s neutral venue as UAE. They feel that because of the heat in the middle east, the players might get injured which is why they don’t want to risk playing in the UAE.
Not to forget, Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) rejected the idea citing the same reason. Now, an SLC official has also rejected the idea and has expressed the desire to stage the entire tournament at their home soil. The official added that the decision rests with Asian Cricket Council. Notably, if this happens, Pakistan will still be counted as the hosts of the tournament.
“The SLC is prepared to host the Asia Cup at a short notice. The decision now is up to the ACC,” a top SLC official told Cricbuzz on Monday, May 29.
On the other hand, an Indian Cricket Board official is also in favor of playing the tournament in Sri Lanka alongside Pakistan.
“Colombo or nothing,” an Indian Cricket Board source was quoted as saying.
“We will go with the Indian Cricket Board,” added the SLC official.
Sri Lanka are the defending champions
Meanwhile, the islanders won the 2022 edition that was played in the UAE. Notably, they were the hosts of the tournament but it was shifted due to civil unrest and lack of resources. Meanwhile, in the tournament, they only lost to Afghanistan in the first round of the tournament. After this, they beat India, Pakistan (twice), Bangladesh, and Afghanistan (Super Four).
The Lankans will look to defend their title.
