PCB is mulling over the hybrid model to host the matches for India in the upcoming ICC Asia Cup. Pakistan is expected to host ICC 50-over Asia Cup in September.
Indian team has refused to travel to Pakistan citing security concerns for the Asia Cup. As per the media reports, Pakistan is in talks with the Asia Cricket Council to organize the matches against India offshore. Pakistan has strongly reacted to the change of the venue of the Asia Cup.
“The PCB is very clear on the Asia Cup. It is Pakistan’s right to host the cup and if any attempts are made to take the event away, Pakistan will not take part in any such exercise. However, to safeguard the interest of the competition and participating countries, the PCB has proposed a hybrid model in which some India matches are scheduled offshore. The PCB’s proposal, submitted by Chairman Najam Sethi, will be reviewed by the ACC, which will revert with comments,” a source told the local publication.
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Further reports tell ACC is seriously considering the hybrid solution. “The ACC will provide their feedback to the PCB suggestion, following which further decisions will be made. However, if the proposal resubmitted by the ACC is not in the interest of Pakistan cricket, then the PCB will have no option but to withdraw from the event. For the PCB, only an event schedule that protects the genuine rights of the country’s cricket will be acceptable,” said the official who spoke on the condition of anonymity.
PCB has only agreed to the hybrid model if PCB that the financial rights and genuine earnings from the Asia Cup will be provided to it. India and Pakistan have been placed in one pool of the Asia Cup. They are expected to meet thrice at the event.