The Asia Cup 2023 was originally scheduled to take place solely in Pakistan, but a recent proposal to adopt a hybrid host format has elicited a range of contradictory responses. The incoming chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Zaka Ashraf, has expressed his displeasure with this decision. In a recent interview with the media, Ashraf explicitly criticised the model, but he subsequently clarified that he would not impede the implementation of the chosen format.
In an interview with the media on Wednesday, Zaka Ashraf categorically rejected the hybrid host format for the 2023 Asia Cup. His disapproval sparked a debate over whether further discussion of the tournament’s particulars was required. Personal dissatisfaction was expressed by Ashraf, who stated that the hybrid model does not produce favourable results for Pakistan. He was disappointed that the negotiations did not secure the entire tournament for Pakistan, with Sri Lanka obtaining the majority of contests and Pakistan receiving only four. Ashraf emphasised that such an arrangement is not in his country’s best interests.
Despite his reservations, Ashraf acknowledged that a decision regarding the format of the Asia Cup 2023 had already been made, and he affirmed the need to adhere to it. In an unexpected turn of events, he informed ESPNcricinfo that he would not oppose or contest his predecessor’s decision.
Although he may not personally concur with the hybrid model, Ashraf understood the significance of honouring commitments and promised to adhere to the tournament’s chosen format. Moreover, he guaranteed that all future PCB decisions would prioritise Pakistan’s best interests.
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