LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have rubbished media reports suggesting Pakistan team would boycott the upcoming 2023 Asia Cup, if the hybrid model proposed by Najam Sethi, is not accepted by Asian Cricket Council (ACC).

After India's refusal to send its team to Pakistan, PCB had proposed a hybrid model for the tournament, which involves dividing it into two phases. The initial phase would be conducted in Pakistan, excluding India, while the second phase would be held in the UAE. The PCB remains optimistic that the tournament will proceed as scheduled and according to the hybrid model proposed by the PCB.

According to sources, the PCB is unwavering in its position as the host of the highly anticipated Asia Cup later this year. Despite growing speculation and rumors, PCB officials are determined to maintain their stance and are actively working to ensure the successful hosting of the tournament.

Meanwhile, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has allegedly been engaging in a misinformation campaign through their local media outlets. One of their recent claims is that other ACC members have rejected PCB’s hybrid model, and thus Pakistan may pull out from the tournament.

The Pakistan board officials have dismissed these statements as baseless and divorced from reality. They firmly believe that Pakistan's efforts to justify its position will prevail over any conspiracies orchestrated by the BCCI and the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). While waiting for the Asian Cricket Council's decision, the PCB is also focusing on arranging additional One Day International (ODI) matches for the national team to prepare for the upcoming World Cup 2023, scheduled in India. The PCB is exploring the possibility of scheduling matches in August or September, and for this purpose, discussions are underway with other cricket boards to finalize the plans. According to media reports, they are planning a triangular series involving South Africa and Ireland, which might take place in Karachi. Before they depart for India, all teams will want to maximize their preparation by engaging in matches held in Pakistan conditions, recognizing it as a valuable opportunity that should not be squandered.

Published in The Daily National Courier, June, 08 2023

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