ACC Likely to Approve Pakistan’s Proposed Hybrid Model for Asia Cup

New Delhi: The Asian Cricket Council, under the leadership of BCCI secretary Jay Shah, is likely to approve the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) proposed ‘hybrid model’ for the Asia Cup. According to reports, four non-India matches will be held in Pakistan, while the rest will take place in Sri Lanka’s Galle and Pallekele. This decision paves the way for Pakistan’s participation in the ODI World Cup in India later this year.

The ACC is expected to make an official announcement about the hybrid model soon, enabling the Pakistan team to travel to India without any issues. The schedule for the Asia Cup is set for September, and once it is confirmed, the decks will be cleared for Pakistan’s participation in the World Cup.

Previously, there were concerns as many countries were opposed to the hybrid model. However, the ACC entrusted Oman Cricket Board chief Pankaj Khimji with finding a solution, resulting in the approval of the proposed model. Lahore’s Gadaffi Stadium will host four non-India games, while the India-Pakistan matches and other Super Four games will be held in either Pallekele or Galle.

The decision to include Pakistan in the Asia Cup was crucial for broadcasters, as omitting the team would have meant a reduction in revenue due to the highly anticipated India-Pakistan matches. By accommodating Pakistan, the broadcasters can fulfil their commitments and ensure a successful tournament.

Following a visit by ICC CEO Geoff Allardice and chairman Greg Barclay to Karachi, where they met with PCB chairman Najam Sethi, an agreement was reached. Pakistan agreed not to impose any conditions for participating in the World Cup, on the condition that four Asia Cup matches are held in Pakistan as per their hosting rights.

The schedule for the World Cup is expected to be released in the coming week, with India likely to face Pakistan in Ahmedabad. Pakistan’s remaining matches could be held in Chennai and Hyderabad.