The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) suggested a hybrid model in cricket for the upcoming Asia Cup 2023 according to which all Team India matches were to be played in the UAE instead of at host Pakistan. However, BCCI has rejected the hybrid model suggested by the PCB after which the ACC will look for another solution for hosting the marquee tournament.
Meaning of Hybrid Model in Cricket
Hybrid model in cricket makes sure that a pre-decided host nation organises the complete tournament on their home soil while the games of a particular nation are organised on a neutral venue. As per the hybrid model suggested by the PCB, Team India’s matches were supposed to be held in neutral venues like the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Sri Lanka, Bangladesh or the United Kingdom.
The PCB proposed a hybrid model in cricket for the tournament where four preliminary rounds and two super four games would be held in Pakistan, with Team India’s games and the final to be held at a neutral venue. However, the BCCI are not going to support the PCB’s proposed hybrid model for the Asia Cup, which suggests all India matches be played in the UAE instead of at host Pakistan.
“Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Afghanistan have already told the PCB that they have no issues playing their games in Pakistan. But India is not keen on supporting the hybrid model. Now, the impasse hasn’t been broken and the final decision will only be taken at ACC executive board meeting that Jay (Shah) will have to summon,” an ACC board member told PTI.
“There has to be a middle of the road solution as you can’t put this hybrid model to vote. I mean if there are six nations playing the event, what is the locus standi of the 19 other nations who won’t play the tournament? On what basis will they vote when they have no stake?” the ACC member further added.
The hybrid model suggested by PCB does have a logistical issue as having the Asia Cup in two countries means double mileage for the broadcasters. Meanwhile, the BCCI feels that it will be a logistical nightmare considering the UAE might not be the neutral venue.
The Pakistan board has already told the ACC that they would expect at least 0.5 million USD from gate receipts of the two India vs Pakistan matches if they are held in Sri Lanka, as the capacity of Galle or Premadasa Stadium isn’t as much as Dubai or Abu Dhabi.