The Asia Cup 2023 Super 4 matches hang in the balance as rain clouds loom over Colombo. Cricket enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the tournament’s climax, but what happens if these crucial matches are canceled?
Pakistan’s Strong Start in Asia Cup Super 4
The Super 4 began with Pakistan defeating Bangladesh by seven wickets. They have placed one foot firmly in the final with this victory. Despite this, there is still uncertainty regarding the remaining Super 4 matches.
Uncertainty Surrounding Asia Cup Super 4 Matches
In the Asia Cup 2023 Super 4 matches yet to be played, Colombo’s persistent poor weather has cast an uncertain shadow. Given Pakistan’s earlier victory, if these matches are indeed washed out, they will qualify for the final with four points.
The Tiebreaker Scenario
Sri Lanka and India would have the same Net Run Rate if there were a washout. The coin toss will therefore determine which of these teams will join Pakistan in the final.
Bangladesh, having already lost one game in the Super 4, would only accrue two points if additional games were washed out, effectively eliminating them from the final.
The Shared Trophy Scenario
If the final match fails to take place on September 17 due to unfavorable weather, the trophy will be shared.
Remaining Asia Cup 2023 Super 4 Matches
Here is a schedule of upcoming Super 4 matches:
| Date | Match | Venue | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sept 9 | Sri Lanka vs. Bangladesh | Colombo | 2:30 pm (PST) |
| Sept 10 | Pakistan vs. India | Colombo | 2:30 pm (PST) |
| Sept 12 | India vs. Sri Lanka | Colombo | 2:30 pm (PST) |
| Sept 14 | Pakistan vs. Sri Lanka | Colombo | 2:30 pm (PST) |
| Sept 15 | India vs. Bangladesh | Colombo | 2:30 pm (PST) |
Asia Cup 2023 Final
The final will take place in Colombo at 2:30 pm (PST) on September 17
ACC’s Controversial Asia Cup 2023 Venue Decision
The President of the ACC, Jay Shah, came under criticism for handling the Asia Cup 2023 venue issue. Due to an extended rain forecast in Colombo, the Super 4 matches were originally planned for Hambantota. ACC, however, retracted this decision and stated that the matches would be played in Colombo as originally planned.
PCB’s Concerns
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) expresses discontent with this unilateral decision and calls for an urgent meeting to resolve it. Changing the venue abruptly for the Asia Cup 2023 matches has posed logistical challenges for the PCB.
Shah’s Past Controversies
Jay Shah, who is also the secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), has previously been involved in contentious decisions, including late changes to the ICC World Cup schedule for 2023, which drew criticism from cricket fans.
Due to adverse weather conditions, the Asia Cup 2023 Super 4 is hanging by a thread. Teams must also contend with the unpredictability of nature as they battle on the field. Hopefully, the weather will favor this exciting tournament, with cricket fans around the world watching closely.
