World Cup 2023: Pakistan could play their matches in Bangladesh
According to an ESPNcricinfo report, Pakistan are likely to play their World Cup 2023 matches in Bangladesh. Although India is the host, Pakistan won't travel there due to the political relations between the two countries. Notably, the BCCI and PCB are at loggerheads regarding the host venue for the upcoming Asia Cup. Pakistan will host the tournament, but India could play their matches elsewhere.
Why does this story matter?
The 50-over Asia Cup is scheduled to take place in August-September in Pakistan. However, the BCCI and PCB are in a standoff regarding the host. Although the PCB has the hosting rights, the BCCI had declared that the Indian team will not be in a position to travel to Pakistan. The Pakistan cricket board seems to have responded likewise (World Cup).
Final decision yet to be out
The report also stated that no decision has been taken regarding the venues for Pakistan's WC games yet. Meanwhile, the PCB believes BCCI's idea of not traveling to Pakistan could have an impact on the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, due to be held in Pakistan.
What about the Asia Cup?
As per ESPNcricinfo, the Asian Cricket Council has agreed to consider the hybrid model for the Asia Cup. This will help Pakistan retain its hosting rights, but India's matches will be held at a neutral venue. The UAE, Oman, Sri Lanka, or England could host these matches. Meanwhile, the India-Pakistan games will be played at a neutral venue, including the knockouts.
PCB intends to follow suit
The PCB, in its latest statement, proposed that the same should be applied, as far as the World Cup is concerned. The 50-over tournament will be conducted across 10 venues in India in October-November. Pakistan's matches could be shifted to Bangladesh as the proximity will evict logistical challenges. However, the final decision rests on that of the BCCI (Asia Cup).
India and Pakistan don't engage in bilateral series
India and Pakistan do not engage in bilateral international series due to political tensions between the two countries. They only face each other in multilateral tournaments. The two countries recently clashed in the Asia Cup. The last India-Pakistan bilateral series was held in 2012 (in India) when Pakistan defeated India 2-1 in ODIs. Besides, India last visited Pakistan in 2008 for the Asia Cup.
