The ICC is seeking a guarantee from Pakistan to participate in the ODI World Cup 2023 amidst the turmoil surrounding the Asia Cup, according to a report. Pakistan had been selected as the hosts for the Asia Cup, but India declined to participate due to security concerns.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) suggested a hybrid model with matches in Pakistan and the UAE, which was rejected by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). There have been calls to boycott India’s participation in the ODI World Cup if they do not attend the Asia Cup in Pakistan.
To settle the situation, ICC representatives, including Chairman Greg Barclay and CEO Geoff Allardice, have gone to Lahore to seek assurances from the PCB. The ICC is concerned that if the hybrid model is accepted for the Asia Cup, the PCB might request the same for the World Cup.
Both the ICC and BCCI want Pakistan to play matches in India for the success of Indo-Pakistan matches and the tournament itself. The ICC officials are working to bridge the gap between the PCB and BCCI and resolve the issues related to the Asia Cup and World Cup.