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The Sri Lanka cricket board has shown keen interest in hosting the Asia Cup from August 24 to September 7, 2022. As per the latest reports, SLC has already received consent from Pakistan for new dates and has asked other participating nations for their approval. Notably, the 18th edition of the Asia Cup has already been postponed twice and is now expected to start on August 24 in Sri Lanka.
The 2020 edition of the Asia Cup was to be hosted by Sri Lanka, but the Covid-19 pandemic spoiled everyone’s plans, and the competition was first pushed to 2021 before being moved again to 2022. Recent reports have claimed that the Sri Lanka cricket board is eager to host the T20 competition and has received support from Pakistan.
A source-based report has claimed that adjustments in the dates are made following a request from the Sri Lanka board from a couple of participating teams, including Pakistan, based on the international fixtures. England is set to tour Pakistan for seven T20 Internationals in the latter part of September.
“If Asia Cup goes ahead on the new dates of August 24 and ends on September 7, it would be perfect dates from Pakistan’s perspective as the team will be back home well in time for the start of the T20 series against England,” the source added.
Meanwhile, another contrasting report has emerged stating that Sri Lanka Cricket is planning an idea to propose to the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) board for moving the upcoming Asia Cup tournament. Reportedly, the SLC will convey the request to ACC President Jay Shah during their meeting.
A total of six teams, including Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, hosts Sri Lanka, and one from the qualifiers, will compete against each other, with the final match to be played on September 7. Asia Cup usually alternates between ODI and T20 cricket formats and was last played in 2018, with India winning that edition.
However, the upcoming edition will be played in a 20-over format eyeing the upcoming T20 World Cup in Australia, scheduled later this year. Notably, Pakistan has the hosting rights for the 2023 Asia Cup, and six teams will participate in the next edition as well.