ACC consider changing venues for Super 4 due to heavy rains in Colombo

Asia Cup 2023 (Source: Twitter)

The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) is currently deliberating a change in venue for the Super Four stage of the 2023 edition of the Asia Cup. This decision comes in light of the heavy rainfall that has plagued Colombo over the past few days. The ACC, being responsible for organizing cricket events in Asia, must carefully consider all factors before making a final determination.

Five of the six Super Four games were scheduled to be played at R Premadasa Stadium in Sri Lanka's capital, with the summit match taking place at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium. However, rumours indicate that Pallekele and Dambulla are being considered as backup locations given the recent weather in Colombo.

The Asia Cup 2023 is happening in the hybrid model in both Sri Lanka and Pakistan, as Indian Cricket Management rejected to send their players to Pakistan. The tournament should have been conducted fully in Pakistan, considering the safety and security of the players Indian Cricket management refused the Indian cricket team to play in Pakistan. and opted Hybrid model where all Indian matches will be played in Sri Lanka.

One of the primary concerns is player safety. Heavy rainfall can lead to waterlogged pitches, making them unfit for play and increasing the risk of injuries. Additionally, rain delays can disrupt match schedules and cause inconvenience to players and spectators alike. Therefore, it is crucial for the ACC to ensure that matches are held in venues where weather conditions are more favourable.

Decider game for both India and Nepal

Earlier on Saturday, after the match between India and Pakistan in Kandy was cancelled due to rain after the Men in Blue were dismissed for 266 runs in 48.5 overs, former PCB chief Najam Sethi exposed ACC by claiming that the option of using the UAE as a backup venue was abandoned despite repeated concerns being voiced about the weather in Sri Lanka during September.

The Final match of Group A in Pallekele is scheduled between India and Nepal, neighbours playing together for the first time. This match will decide which team to move for the Super Four in the tournament. India will advance to the next round even if Monday's game is postponed since they shared points with Pakistan, which crushed Nepal in the tournament's opening round.