Uncertainty over Sri Lanka hosting Asia Cup amidst Political crisis

Sri Lanka might have to opt out of hosting the Asia Cup this year with the ongoing political crisis in the country. The nation is facing a severe problem with the lack of food supplies, fuel and other essentials. With regular power blackouts and riots on the island, the future of the Asia Cup hangs in the balance. 

The nation has been facing one of its biggest financial crisis in the last several years, with both the political parties struggling to maintain their control.

Earlier this year, Sri Lanka was declared as the host for the Asia Cup 2022, as the nation was set to welcome the Asian elites for the white ball tournament this year. However, with the deteriorating conditions in the country, Sri Lanka could lose the right to host the tournament as ICC has already postponed the tournament twice due to the pandemic.

According to a report from GeoSuper, the hosts could lose the rights to the tournament as ICC is looking to transfer the hosting rights of the tournament to another nation. The board will most likely discuss the issue at the upcoming quarterly meeting in Dubai this Sunday.

The report has also added that Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ramiz Raza and chief executive Faisal Hasnain are expected to be present at the high profile meeting.

The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) had earlier announced that the tournament would be held in Sri Lanka from the 27th of August to the 11th of September this year. For the second time since its inception, the contest is slated to be held in the game's shortest format. India will be stepping onto the field as the defending champions with the most titles to their name.