Schedule Finalization: ACC approves unique hybrid model
The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) is currently working diligently to finalize the schedule for the upcoming Asia Cup. The tournament is set to take place from August 31 to September 17. Moreover, ACC has also approved a rather unique hybrid model and as a result the draft schedule proposed by the Pakistan Cricket Board underwent multiple revisions.
This innovative model, accepted by all stakeholders including the PCB and BCCI, will see a total of 13 matches played in the tournament.
Tournament Format: Groups, Super Four, and the Final
The teams have been divided into two groups for the Asia Cup. Pakistan finds themselves in Group A alongside India and Nepal, while Group B consists of Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. The top two teams from each group will advance to the Super Four stage. From there, the top two teams will proceed to the final, making it an intense battle for the championship title.Preparation for ODI World CupThis edition of the Asia Cup, played in the 50-overs format, serves as a crucial preparation run for five out of the six participating teams. It will help them fine-tune their strategies and line-ups ahead of the highly anticipated ODI World Cup, scheduled to commence on October 5 in India. Nepal is the only team not participating in the World Cup, making this tournament an invaluable opportunity for the remaining teams to assess their strengths and weaknesses.
Venue adjustments and potential changes in schedule
Initially, the PCB intended to host four matches in a single city in Pakistan. However, under the new administration led by Chairman Zaka Ashraf, Multan was added as a second venue. According to the draft schedule, Multan will host the opening match, while Lahore will stage three matches and one Super Four game.
Super Four Matches and Potential India-Pakistan Rematch
The draft schedule reveals specific match dates, with Bangladesh set to play Afghanistan on September 3 in Lahore. On September 5, the Gaddafi Stadium will witness a clash between Sri Lanka and Afghanistan. Notably, regardless of their finishing positions in the first round, Pakistan will retain the A1 spot, India the A2 spot, Sri Lanka the B1 spot, and Bangladesh the B2 spot. If Nepal and Afghanistan qualify for the Super Four stage, they will replace the eliminated teams from each group.
While the draft schedule provides an initial glimpse into the tournament, it is also subject to further changes before the ACC announces the final version. Fans eagerly await the official announcement, which will provide clarity on match fixtures, venues, and any potential alterations that may arise.
For all the latest world News Click Here
