In a gesture aimed at fostering cricketing camaraderie across borders, Zaka Ashraf, the Chief of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), has extended a formal invitation to Jay Shah, the Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), to attend the opening match of the Asia Cup 2023. The inaugural encounter is set to take place between Pakistan and Nepal at the Multan International Cricket Stadium in Multan on Wednesday, August 30.
Cricket Pakistan, in its recent report, shed light on a pivotal exchange between Zaka Ashraf and Jay Shah. During an ICC meeting held in Durban, the two cricketing dignitaries seized the opportunity to engage in a discussion on the sidelines. It was during this conversation that the PCB chief extended a cordial invitation to the BCCI secretary, urging his presence at the Asia Cup’s opening match.
Initially, Jay Shah reportedly accepted the invitation, expressing his willingness to attend the event. However, subsequent developments indicated a change of plan after Jay Shah consulted with relevant parties. Given the ongoing political sensitivities between the neighboring nations, the likelihood of Jay Shah’s visit to Pakistan appears diminished. Nonetheless, the PCB has extended invitations to all officials affiliated with the Asian Cricket Council.
As the anticipation mounts, the question looms whether Jay Shah-led BCCI will ultimately make the journey to Pakistan for the Asia Cup 2023. Cricket Pakistan’s insights indicate that the PCB is cognizant of the challenging geopolitical landscape and the resulting reluctance of neighboring nations to travel for the tournament.
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Undeterred by the potential hurdles, the PCB emphasized its commitment to keeping politics at bay and prioritizing the spirit of sportsmanship. The cricket governing body in Pakistan underscored its intention behind extending the invitation to foster goodwill between the two states. The decision to accept or decline the invitation lies with the BCCI.
Turning the spotlight on Zaka Ashraf, when queried about his potential visit to India for the upcoming ODI World Cup, PCB sources indicated that they would assess the situation in consultation with the Pakistan government before making a decision.
Originally slated to be held solely in Pakistan, the Asia Cup’s dynamics have evolved to accommodate differing preferences. Considering the BCCI’s reservations about playing in Pakistan, India will compete in its matches in Sri Lanka.
With six teams poised to vie for glory in the imminent Asia Cup, the tournament features two groups, each comprising three teams. Group A includes India, Nepal, and Pakistan, while Group B comprises Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.
Among the highly anticipated clashes in the tournament, the much-awaited showdown between cricketing giants India and Pakistan will transpire on Saturday, September 2, at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Sri Lanka.