Mumbai:The International Cricket Council (ICC) is only willing to consider the ‘Hybrid Model’ for the Asia Cup if Pakistan confirms its participation in the World Cup.
According to Indian media reports, the ICC has made its agreement with the Pakistan Cricket Board conditional on following the proposed model. The ICC has stipulated that written confirmation regarding Pakistan’s tour to India for the World Cup in October this year should be obtained. The formal decision from the ICC will be made only after the Special General Meeting scheduled for May 27.
It is evident that under the Hybrid Model, Pakistan will play five matches in Pakistan and eight matches at neutral venues. The possibility of the neutral venues being UAE or Sri Lanka exists.
It should be noted that the ICC World Cup is set to be held in India next year, but before that, the Asia Cup will be hosted by Pakistan. However, India had declined to participate in the event. Following this, PCB Chairman, Najam Sethi, had cautioned against Pakistan’s participation in the World Cup to be held in India.
However, discussions are ongoing between the two boards on the hybrid model proposed by Pakistan for the Asia Cup.