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Uncertainty Looms Over Asia Cup 2023 Hosting As BCCI Rejects PCB's Hybrid Model; Final Verdict Awaited: Reports

The hosting rights of the 2023 Asia Cup remain a contentious issue, with no resolution in sight. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has firmly stated that India will not travel to Pakistan, creating a deadlock in the decision-making process. This article explores the current situation and the various perspectives involved.


BCCI's Opposition to Pakistan Venue :
The BCCI's stance on not playing in Pakistan has thrown a wrench into the plans for the Asia Cup. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) proposed a hybrid model, but according to a report by the Press Trust of India (PTI), the BCCI is unlikely to accept such an arrangement.

Logistical Challenges of the Hybrid Model:
The BCCI considers the hybrid model a logistical nightmare, primarily due to broadcasting complications arising from hosting matches in two different countries. The United Arab Emirates (UAE), which has been a possible alternative venue in the past, is now seemingly unlikely. Additionally, the PCB's request for gate receipts of 0.5 million poses a challenge in terms of venue capacity, particularly in Sri Lanka.

Supportive Stance of Other Cricket Boards :
While Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh have expressed no objections to the hybrid model, India's opposition has created a deadlock. Informally, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chairman and BCCI secretary, Jay Shah, conveyed India's stance during a meeting held on the sidelines of the Indian Premier League (IPL) Final in Ahmedabad.

Need for a Middle Ground:
Finding a solution is essential given the ACC's structure, which consists of 25 members, only six of whom will participate in the Asia Cup. With such limited involvement, putting the hybrid model to a vote would not be fair. ACC members suggest the need for a middle ground that accommodates the concerns of all stakeholders.

The hosting rights of the 2023 Asia Cup hang in the balance as the BCCI remains opposed to playing in Pakistan and the proposed hybrid model faces logistical and voting challenges. The final decision rests with an ACC executive board meeting summoned by Jay Shah. As the cricketing world awaits a resolution, finding a mutually agreeable solution is crucial to ensure the smooth execution of the tournament.

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