The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) is currently in discussions about potentially relocating the Super 4 stages of the Asia Cup due to persistent heavy rainfall in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The adverse weather conditions have prompted concerns, and alternative venues such as Pallekele and Dambulla are being considered.
The first match in Colombo is scheduled for September 9, but the ACC is apprehensive about the bleak weather forecasts. With two more matches yet to be played in Pakistan, a final decision on the venue is expected from the ACC within the next 24-48 hours.
The decision to organize the Asia Cup during Sri Lanka’s rainy season has faced significant criticism. Najam Sethi, former chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Management Committee, expressed his disappointment following the cancellation of the highly anticipated Pakistan-India match due to rain in Kandy, Sri Lanka.
He disclosed that during his tenure, he strongly advocated for hosting Asia Cup matches in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to mitigate weather-related disruptions. Sethi’s social media post highlighted the challenges posed by the decision to host the tournament in Sri Lanka, a move made after India declined to play in Pakistan.
Najam Sethi’s criticism highlights the importance of strategic venue selection to ensure uninterrupted gameplay. The balance between accommodating host nations and maintaining ideal playing conditions remains a critical aspect of international cricket management.
