The Asia Cup 2023 has become a focus point of attention in the world of cricket, thanks to both thrilling matches and a fair share of controversy. One particularly contentious issue was the ACC’s choice of allocating a reserve day for the Ind vs Pak Super 4 match, which drew significant criticism, notably from former Indian cricketer Venkatesh Prasad.
There’s been quite a buzz around the decision to schedule a reserve day for the September 10 clash between India and Pakistan at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka. It’s raised some questions, especially considering that in the past, only the Asia Cup final had received this backup day. The real puzzle here is the reasoning behind this unusual move.
When Venkatesh Prasad, the former Indian fast bowler, voiced his disapproval, he didn’t hold back. “If true this is absolute shamelessness this. The organisers have made a mockery and it is unethical to have a tournament with rules being different for the other two teams. In the name of justice, will only be fair if it is abandoned the first day, may it rain harder on the second day and these malicious plans not succeed,” Ventakesh wrote on his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Friday.
Venkatesh Prasad’s criticism echoed the sentiments of many others, including Bangladesh cricket team coach Chandika Hathurusingha. He expressed concern about the apparent unfairness in granting a reserve day solely to the India vs Pakistan match, especially considering the looming threat of rain in Colombo.
The decision to deviate from the usual schedule by allocating a reserve day for this match has left people wondering. In the group stage, the India vs. Pakistan match had to be postponed due to rain, resulting in both teams earning a single point each. This outcome was anticipated, given the absence of a buffer day.
Looking ahead to September 12, when India is scheduled to face Sri Lanka in the Super Four, the unpredictable Colombo weather raises concerns. Initially, there was a discussion within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the tournament’s hosts, about relocating the Colombo games to Hambantota. However, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) intervened and decided to maintain the original schedule, citing practical considerations.
