Ever since the nation was hit with the coronavirus pandemic, the lockdown that followed brought an abrupt end to cricket action. Players and fans have been deprived of their regular dose of cricket. There was some respite recently when tentative dates for the 2020 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) were announced. However, there was some conflict in the rescheduled dates of the IPL 2020 with that of the Asia Cup (which is scheduled to be held at the same time).
Pakistan Cricket Board Opposes IPL Reschedule
The tentative schedule of the 13th edition of the IPL is slated from 26th September to 8th November. But there has been a strong opposition to this from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). The schedule for the Asia Cup 2020 was declared well in advance and standing strongly in its favor, the PCB is against it moving away just to favor the IPL. Talking to a local news channel, the PCB had cleared its stance on why the Asia Cup should go ahead as per its schedule. “Our stance is absolutely clear, the Asia Cup is set for September and the only reason it should not take place is continued health safety issues. We will not accept that the Asia Cup is moved to accommodate the IPL.”, a source had added.
Why Asia Cup Over IPL?
The PCB feels the Asia Cup, if goes per its planned schedule stands to financially benefit its own board as well as other members of the ACC (Asian Cricket Council). With commercial gains in mind, the board further claims – “It is important and critical for the finances of PCB and also for the growth of ACC member boards.” So clearly, replacing the Asia Cup with the IPL is definitely not a good move in the eyes of the PCB
Sri Lanka as Host
Meanwhile, the Sri Lanka Cricket Board is considering itself in the run to host the 2020 edition of the Asia Cup T20. As sources in the board have revealed, they are in talks with local government authorities over hosting the event.