Shah, who is also the chairman of the ACC, informed the continental body that due to political tensions between the two countries, the Indian government will not grant them permission to play in Pakistan.
India’s position was nothing new. Last year, Shah told the Indian media that the Men in Blue would not be traveling to Pakistan for the continental showpiece and that they would be happy to compete at a neutral venue hosted by Pakistan.
In response to the BCCI secretary’s comments, then-PCB chief Ramiz Raja threatened that if India refused to come to Pakistan for the Asia Cup, they would boycott the ODI World Cup in India.
Najam Sethi, the man who replaced Raja, appears to want to play hardball as well. According to Pakistani media, Sethi’s has decided not to send its team to India for the ODI World Cup if they do not travel there for the Asia Cup.
Sharing the news on the micro-blogging site, Pakistani sports journalist Farid Khan tweeted, Breaking: Pakistan have refused to travel to India for the World Cup in case there is no Asia Cup in Pakistan this year, reports in Pakistan media. This is a very strong stance; is this the correct move, and will it occur? #AsiaCup2023.u201d
In response to the news, Indian fans mocked the PCB president for attempting to portray himself as a brave individual while fully aware that none of his scare tactics would have any effect on India.
The Indians had a great time in the reply section, taking a sly dig at Pakistan’s current economic crisis and reminding them that beggars can’t be choosers. According to one fan, the biggest loss will be suffered by India and Zimbabwe, who will be denied two easy points in the main event if Pakistan refuses to participate.
They reacted as follows:
With the BCCI stating its position, it is likely that the Asia Cup will be relocated from Pakistan to a neutral location such as the United Arab Emirates.
The ACC’s next meeting in March will decide whether to announce the new hosts.