Rain Disrupts India-Pakistan Clash in Asia Cup 2023
The Asian Cricket Council faced heavy criticism for scheduling the Asia Cup 2023 in Sri Lanka, leading to the marquee match-up between India and Pakistan being called off due to rain at the Pallekele International Stadium in Kandy.
Only one innings was possible in the third match of the tournament on Saturday after India were bowled out for 266 in 48.5 overs, and rain prevented the Pakistan team from starting their chase.
Najam Sethi’s Regret
“How disappointing! Rain mars the greatest contest in cricket. But this was forecast. As PCB Chair, I urged the ACC to play in UAE, but poor excuses were made to accommodate Sri Lanka. Too hot in Dubai, they said.”
“But it was as hot as when the Asia Cup was played there last time in Sep 2022 or when IPL was played there in April 2014 and Sep 2020. Politics over sport. Unforgivable,” he added.
Former Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Management Committee, Najam Sethi, voiced his regrets over the scheduling decisions that led to the cancellation of the highly anticipated India-Pakistan match. Sethi expressed his disappointment on the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter).
Virender Sehwag’s Humorous Take
Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag also joined the conversation, albeit with a touch of humor. He jokingly remarked, “Baarish ke time toh Chai Pakode rakhte hain yaar. Asia cup bhi rakh diya,” which translates to “We usually have tea and snacks during rainy weather. They scheduled the Asia Cup during rain.”