The Asia Cup 2023 is facing an uncertain future as Colombo, Sri Lanka, is shrouded in bad weather predictions with heavy rain expected for the next 15 days. Despite the looming weather challenge, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has decided to stick with Colombo as the match venue, risking disruptions.
If the ongoing Super 4 matches of the Asia Cup are indeed washed out due to the relentless rain, Pakistan will automatically secure a spot in the final. Pakistan recently secured a convincing seven-wicket victory against Bangladesh, earning them four crucial points.
In the event of washouts, both Sri Lanka and India will be left with three points each, and their Net Run Rates will be identical. In such a scenario, a coin toss will determine which of the two teams advances to the final. Bangladesh, having already lost one Super Four game, will only have two points and will not be in contention for the final.
If, by chance, the final match scheduled for September 17 also succumbs to the inclement weather, the trophy will be shared among the finalists.
The remaining Super 4 matches of Asia Cup 2023 include:
- Sept 9: Sri Lanka vs. Bangladesh in Colombo at 2:30 pm (PST)
- Sept 10: Pakistan vs. India in Colombo at 2:30 pm (PST)
- Sept 12: India vs. Sri Lanka in Colombo at 2:30 pm (PST)
- Sept 14: Pakistan vs. Sri Lanka in Colombo at 2:30 pm (PST)
- Sept 15: India vs. Bangladesh in Colombo at 2:30 pm (PST)
The Asia Cup 2023 final is scheduled for September 17 in Colombo at 2:30 pm (PST).
Earlier, ACC President Jay Shah raised eyebrows when it was revealed that the Super 4 matches would take place in Colombo as initially planned, rather than Hambantota. The decision to shift the matches to Hambantota had been made on Monday due to a prolonged forecast of rain in Colombo.
However, this decision was reversed, and the matches were reverted to Colombo, sparking displeasure from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). The PCB expressed concern over the sudden venue change, leading to logistical challenges for Asia Cup 2023.
Read more: Bangladesh All Out, Sets Pakistan Target of 194 Runs in Asia Cup 2023 Super Four Clash
ACC President Jay Shah, who also holds the position of Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), had previously faced criticism for last-minute changes to the ICC World Cup 2023 schedule. The decision to stick with Colombo for the Asia Cup 2023 matches is now under scrutiny, with stakeholders seeking a resolution to the matter.
