Asia Cup 2023: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) are leaving no stone unturned in their bid to host the Asia Cup this year. While their tussle with BCCI continues, chief Najam Sethi has now gone to war with Sri Lanka Cricket Board to try and ensure that Pakistan retains hosting rights. After the SLC rejected PCB’s hybrid model. Pakistan now threatens to boycott their two-match Test series in Sri Lanka in July.

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Pakistan will boycott two Tests in Sri Lanka

As per local media, Pakistan will boycott two Tests in Sri Lanka should SLC reject their hybrid model for the Asia Cup 2023. With BCCI unwilling to travel to Pakistan, PCB suggested a hybrid model with India’s games to be played in the UAE. However, it is believed that both Bangladesh and Sri Lanka have rejected the proposal, citing the extreme summer conditions in UAE in September.

PCB at no point is willing to risk losing hosting rights

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PCB at no point is willing to risk losing hosting rights. With the Champions Trophy to hold in Pakistan in 2025, Asia Cup is a crucial tournament for the PCB to showcase its strength and security. No participation from India or a complete cancellation would weaken their position to host other multi-nation tournaments.

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Pakistan Cricket Board has now threatened to boycott the Sri Lanka tour

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As such, Pakistan Cricket Board has now threatened to boycott the Sri Lanka tour. PCB and SLC have had cordial relations, but the Najam Sethi board has not taken Sri Lanka’s refusal kindly. A boycott of the Test series would seriously affect SLC. Sri Lanka itself is still recovering from an economic crisis. However, they could still benefit should the Asia Cup be moved to the country.

India will not participate if the tournament is held in Pakistan

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As things stand, no decision is yet taken on the future of the Asia Cup. India will not participate if the tournament is held in Pakistan. Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are unwilling to send their teams to UAE. PCB will boycott the tournament and the World Cup should Asia Cup be moved out of Pakistan. Sri Lanka has emerged as an option to host the Asia Cup sans Pakistan.