Jay Shah wanted to win, Pakistan wanted to save face: Rashid Latif

Former Pakistan cricketer, Rashid Latif, shared his thoughts on dates and venues of the 2023 Asia Cup announced by Asian Cricket Council (ACC) on Thursday. He suggested that Jay Shah, the President of the ACC, had a desire to win and gain recognition for his efforts in organizing the tournament. Latif also highlighted Pakistan's need to save face amidst their own challenges.

The Asia Cup 2023 will be held from 31st August to 17th September 2023 will be hosted in a hybrid model, proposed by PCB, with four matches being held in Pakistan, and the remaining nine matches being played in Sri Lanka.

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"This is a typical scenario; Jay Shah wanted to win; he needed recognition for his work, somewhere he wanted the medal for his under-the-belt tactics that he organized some event as he is the ACC President. Moreover, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) was also in a critical situation, and they also needed a way to save face and find a solution to overcome their challenges," Latif said.

The 54-year-old also highlighted Sri Lanka as a significant beneficiary in this scenario, with the majority of matches being hosted in Sri Lanka, the country stands to gain numerous benefits, including exposure, revenue, and the opportunity to showcase its cricketing infrastructure. 

"Both India and Pakistan have been successful in this. The third beneficiary is Sri Lanka, which will host almost the tournament with nine matches. Afghanistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh will receive their respective participating fees, so it will be a very good event for everyone. Pakistan is happy, India is happy, and Bangladesh and Sri Lanka are also delighted," he concluded.

Under the hybrid model, Pakistan versus Nepal, Bangladesh versus Afghanistan, Afghanistan versus Sri Lanka and Sri Lanka versus Bangladesh are likely to be held at the Gadaffi Stadium in Lahore.