PCB Threatens to Back Out of 2023 World Cup After India’s Unilateral Asia Cup Decision

 Following Mr. Jay Shah’s comments on Tuesday regarding moving the Asia Cup to a neutral location, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) released the following statement: “The PCB has observed with surprise and dissatisfaction of yesterday’s comments made by the ACC President Mr. Jay Shah. The comments were made without any discussion or consultation with the Pakistan Cricket Board (the event’s host) or the Asian Cricket Council Board, and without any consideration of their long-term ramifications or repercussions. Mr. Shah’s announcement of relocating the ACC Asia Cup came after he presided over the ACC meeting in which Pakistan was awarded the trophy, receiving resounding support and approval from the ACC Board Members. It is obvious that Cup was made unilaterally. “The overall impact of such statements have the potential to split the Asian and international cricketing communities, and can impact Pakistan’s visit to India for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 and future ICC Events in Indi,” the Asian Cricket Council stated. “This is contrary to the philosophy and spirit for which the Asian Cricket Council was formed in September 1983 – a united Asian cricket body to safeguard the interests of the its Members and organise, develop, and promote the game of cricket in Asia.

“The ACC has not yet provided the PCB with any official message or clarification about the ACC President’s statement. In order to discuss this significant and delicate issue, the PCB has now asked the Asian Cricket Council to arrange an emergency meeting of its Board as soon as is practically practicable.