Asia Cup 2023: Tournament to be played without Pakistan? BCCI rejects PCB's 'Hybrid Model'

As a result of the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) unwillingness to send Team India to Pakistan and even accept their 'Hybrid Model' approach for the upcoming Asia Cup 2023, the is likely to be shifted to Sri Lanka. 

READ | Asia Cup 2023: What is PCB's 'Hybrid Model' involving India matches?

According to a report in the Telegraph, the PCB will be informed that the participating teams have consented to hold the Asia Cup in Sri Lanka, and if Pakistan needs to take part in the event, they must play in Sri Lanka; else, they have the option of withdrawing.

The BCCI's decision to reject the hybrid format may potentially lead Pakistan to cancel its participation in the ODI World Cup in India. If the Asia Cup's location is altered as a result of pressure from the BCCI, the PCB has maintained a steadfast stance that they will not play in India.

Greg Barclay, the chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), and Geoff Allardice, the CEO, are currently in Lahore persuading Pakistan to play in the World Cup. However, PCB has advised them that approval from the government is required for them to take part in the major event.

"If the government says that we can play in India for the World Cup despite India not touring Pakistan for the Asia Cup then we will be ready to do so," Sethi told The Telegraph earlier this month.

According to the report, the BCCI will not permit Pakistan to host its World Cup matches at a neutral site, as suggested by the PCB. 

The fixtures for the World Cup 2023 could be released during the World Test Championship (WTF) final in London during June 7-11.