Report: Pakistan Cricket Board May Boycott Asia Cup Over Likely Venue Shift To Sri Lanka

[Amjid Javed]

Hearing via multiple sources that Najam Sethi is pulling out of this year’s Asia Cup after the events of yesterday..

PCB are also re-evaluating their membership in ACC but no final decision has been made yet.

More to follow..

Asia cup has always be a waste of time in my eyes. Maybe only reason some fans want it now is because outside of the ICC tournaments its only time you get to see Pakistan vs India games, so I see that point.

Let's be real here the only time SL, Bangla or Afghanistan would really be interested in this cup is when they host it as it would be their biggest source of revenue internationally outside of an ICC tournament.

So it's no shock SL and Bangladesh are offering to host it.

Pakistan are better off ditching it forever.

 

[MenInG]

Hearing via multiple sources that Najam Sethi is pulling out of this year’s Asia Cup after the events of yesterday..

PCB are also re-evaluating their membership in ACC but no final decision has been made yet.

More to follow..

Pakistan cricket officials have opposed the shifting of this year's Asia Cup to Sri Lanka and are seriously mulling boycotting the regional tournament if their proposal is not accepted by the Asian Cricket Council. Pakistan Cricket Board chief Najam Sethi met with officials of the Asian Cricket Council in Dubai on Tuesday and objected to the move to relocate the Asia Cup to Sri Lanka instead of having it in the UAE.

"Sethi has stressed the ACC should accept Pakistan's revised hybrid model proposal schedule for the Asia Cup and if at all the majority of members wish to have it elsewhere it must be held in UAE like in 2018 and 2022. Sethi rubbished the concerns of the BCCI conveyed to the ACC that it would be too hot to play in UAE in September by pointing out today that the BCCI had held its IPL in UAE in September to November in 2020," one reliable source in the PCB said.

"I can tell you this much Sethi has taken a new hybrid model schedule to the ACC and it is a proposal they shouldn't reject now," he disclosed.

The source said the PCB was surprised to learn that the Sri Lankan board with back door support from BCCI had told the ACC it wants to host the Asia Cup this year.

"It came as a surprise because earlier at the last ACC board meeting in February, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan had rejected the Lankan proposal and it was agreed Pakistan would remain the host." Before leaving for Dubai, Sethi had told his officials to start working on having a 3 to 4 nation event in Pakistan this year in the Asia Cup window if the continental event is not held in the country.

NDTV

 

[Saj]

Another problem PCB has is that all it will take, is an offer of a series from BCCI to ACB, BCB and SLC for them to go running to BCCI's side and do whatever they want.

Money talks, loyalty is nothing.

 

[Mainul]

Pakistan should be diplomatic here , not emotional.

They have just got back international cricket at home after more than a decade and long fight.

At this moment, fighting with BCCI may jeopardize their home international cricket any time.

Don't fight with crocodile at the middle of river

 

[Amjid Javed]

Another problem PCB has is that all it will take, is an offer of a series from BCCI to ACB, BCB and SLC for them to go running to BCCI's side and do whatever they want.

Money talks, loyalty is nothing.

Because of money and no loyalty reasons PCB ain't going to get to host Asia cup at home, its a waste of time and effort that PCB need to move on from.

 

[Markhor]

The inability of the Pakistani public to acknowledge reality, let alone conduct any serious introspection, never ceases to amaze.

1) Pakistan boycotting the 2023 World Cup and forfeiting its share of ICC revenue couldn't be more counterproductive. At a stroke, that'll affect our ability to pay hundreds of PCB officials including groundstaff, scorers, domestic/junior cricketers and coaches. Despite international cricket returning and the PSL, our domestic TV revenues are nowhere near what the Big 3 generate. Our last TV deal - a "groundbreaking" revenue sharing partnership with PTV barely got off the ground leaving us dependent on ICC inflows.

It's very easy for affluent Pakistanis or those overseas to demand hardline stances if you aren't required to live with the consequences. Should we go down this road, we'll quickly find nationalism and overheated rhetoric doesn't pay the bills.

2) Our government and cricket board has no leverage over India therefore we're in no position to make demands they visit Pakistan or even accept a hybrid model. There's zero trust between the governments as evident by our Foreign Minister's humiliation at the SCO. Our economy is a byword for mismanagement and short-termism. We go through Saudi, Chinese and IMF bailouts like one changes a pair of jeans while political instability in Pakistan is as certain as the sun rising in the morning and setting in the evening meaning international investors want nothing to do with us.

We've nothing to offer SLCB or BCB for playing ball except misguided notions of brotherhood whereas one tour from India is enough to twist their arms.

3) Those fans terming the Asia Cup a meaningless event will be the same ones giving over-by-over analysis in the Match Threads should we participate ! Unless I'm mistaken I can't see an ODI series scheduled before the World Cup. Therefore a high-intensity tournament in front of packed crowds on similar wickets represents ideal preparation and we'd be wrecking our WC chances by simply withdrawing.

That doesn't mean I don't sympathise with PCB's predicament. They shouldn't have to pay the price for our establishment's policies vis-a-vis India over 75 years or for India's intellectual hypocrisy in agreeing to face Pakistan in ICC tournaments yet barring any bilateral contact or tours. Unfortunately powerful nations don't always face the repercussions for hypocrisy and injustice.

But the last 15 years shows overheated rhetoric, lawsuits and false bravado doesn't work. Taking extreme public stances that inevitably require a U-turn doesn't work. Instead quietly cultivate alliances with other cricket boards behind the scenes (NOT just before a major event when these rows break out). Lobby the Govt to end the state stranglehold on TV rights to cricket and allow the private operators to compete thus driving up the value of our domestic broadcasting deals so we're not reliant on ICC funds. Maybe then our statements will be heard.

 

[The_Odd_One]

Boycotting World Cup would be stupid. In no way will it benefit Pakistan. The tournament will go on without Pakistan. PCB will not only lose their share of ICC handout but lose all the support from ICC member countries.

To save face, PCB can cancel Asia cup. None will care about it. However, boycotting a World Cup will ensure that Pakistan will be further isolated in cricket world.

Continue playing at home with everyone except India, make PSL bigger, and try to establish a world class team.

 

[Colorblind Genius]

The inability of the Pakistani public to acknowledge reality, let alone conduct any serious introspection, never ceases to amaze.

1) Pakistan boycotting the 2023 World Cup and forfeiting its share of ICC revenue couldn't be more counterproductive. At a stroke, that'll affect our ability to pay hundreds of PCB officials including groundstaff, scorers, domestic/junior cricketers and coaches. Despite international cricket returning and the PSL, our domestic TV revenues are nowhere near what the Big 3 generate. Our last TV deal - a "groundbreaking" revenue sharing partnership with PTV barely got off the ground leaving us dependent on ICC inflows.

It's very easy for affluent Pakistanis or those overseas to demand hardline stances if you aren't required to live with the consequences. Should we go down this road, we'll quickly find nationalism and overheated rhetoric doesn't pay the bills.

2) Our government and cricket board has no leverage over India therefore we're in no position to make demands they visit Pakistan or even accept a hybrid model. There's zero trust between the governments as evident by our Foreign Minister's humiliation at the SCO. Our economy is a byword for mismanagement and short-termism. We go through Saudi, Chinese and IMF bailouts like one changes a pair of jeans while political instability in Pakistan is as certain as the sun rising in the morning and setting in the evening meaning international investors want nothing to do with us.

We've nothing to offer SLCB or BCB for playing ball except misguided notions of brotherhood whereas one tour from India is enough to twist their arms.

3) Those fans terming the Asia Cup a meaningless event will be the same ones giving over-by-over analysis in the Match Threads should we participate ! Unless I'm mistaken I can't see an ODI series scheduled before the World Cup. Therefore a high-intensity tournament in front of packed crowds on similar wickets represents ideal preparation and we'd be wrecking our WC chances by simply withdrawing.

That doesn't mean I don't sympathise with PCB's predicament. They shouldn't have to pay the price for our establishment's policies vis-a-vis India over 75 years or for India's intellectual hypocrisy in agreeing to face Pakistan in ICC tournaments yet barring any bilateral contact or tours. Unfortunately powerful nations don't always face the repercussions for hypocrisy and injustice.

But the last 15 years shows overheated rhetoric, lawsuits and false bravado doesn't work. Taking extreme public stances that inevitably require a U-turn doesn't work. Instead quietly cultivate alliances with other cricket boards behind the scenes (NOT just before a major event when these rows break out). Lobby the Govt to end the state stranglehold on TV rights to cricket and allow the private operators to compete thus driving up the value of our domestic broadcasting deals so we're not reliant on ICC funds. Maybe then our statements will be heard.

Point 2 is where the dilemma is.

You had an attention seeking YouTuber put on the PCB helm. He had no diplomacy skills and no executive level track record of an experience, no high level problem solving skills, no vision, no intellect, no nothing!

So based on his emotional and deyhaati mindset (that couldn’t be changed with a supposedly “MBA degree”) he starts blabbering.
Thumps his chest to threaten India of boycotting the WC if India doesn’t visit Pakistan to play Asia cup.
It was like a tormented mouse threatening a calm and composed elephant.

He gets kicked out - and another corrupt, dishonest and totally unqualified journalist is made the PCB chairman because he is the friends of Shareefs.

No intellect, no wisdom and no quality of being able to steer ship in the right direction - he picks up the precedent set by the MBA and starts blabbering the same non-sense like another emotional deyhaati - we will boycott the WC if India diesnt visit Pakistan.

India shows the middle finger - so he turns himself into a bigger clown by offering a hybrid model - which was not only unrealistic but totally laughable.

Now, India has shown him both middle fingers by taking the Asia cup out Pakistan.

What to do now?
You tell us.

You have the current and former PCB chairmen who have OFFICIALLY stated that they will boycott the WC if India doesn’t visit Pakistan.

 

[MenInG]

Pakistan should accept that multination type tournaments including India will not be played at home.

They should now approach other nations and work on Tri series type things and move on.

Problem is that all PCB admins want to be heroes.

 

[Bilal7]

A boycott is dumb and pointless. Winning the tournament is how you make a statement.

 

[emranabbas]

Bcci is too powerful for pcb
Pcb should bow down to bcci
Shift asia cup to neutral venue
Visit india play world cup 23
Shift champions trophy 25 to neutral venue
???

 

[Colorblind Genius]

The inability of the Pakistani public to acknowledge reality, let alone conduct any serious introspection, never ceases to amaze.

1) Pakistan boycotting the 2023 World Cup and forfeiting its share of ICC revenue couldn't be more counterproductive. At a stroke, that'll affect our ability to pay hundreds of PCB officials including groundstaff, scorers, domestic/junior cricketers and coaches. Despite international cricket returning and the PSL, our domestic TV revenues are nowhere near what the Big 3 generate. Our last TV deal - a "groundbreaking" revenue sharing partnership with PTV barely got off the ground leaving us dependent on ICC inflows.

It's very easy for affluent Pakistanis or those overseas to demand hardline stances if you aren't required to live with the consequences. Should we go down this road, we'll quickly find nationalism and overheated rhetoric doesn't pay the bills.

2) Our government and cricket board has no leverage over India therefore we're in no position to make demands they visit Pakistan or even accept a hybrid model. There's zero trust between the governments as evident by our Foreign Minister's humiliation at the SCO. Our economy is a byword for mismanagement and short-termism. We go through Saudi, Chinese and IMF bailouts like one changes a pair of jeans while political instability in Pakistan is as certain as the sun rising in the morning and setting in the evening meaning international investors want nothing to do with us.

We've nothing to offer SLCB or BCB for playing ball except misguided notions of brotherhood whereas one tour from India is enough to twist their arms.

3) Those fans terming the Asia Cup a meaningless event will be the same ones giving over-by-over analysis in the Match Threads should we participate ! Unless I'm mistaken I can't see an ODI series scheduled before the World Cup. Therefore a high-intensity tournament in front of packed crowds on similar wickets represents ideal preparation and we'd be wrecking our WC chances by simply withdrawing.

That doesn't mean I don't sympathise with PCB's predicament. They shouldn't have to pay the price for our establishment's policies vis-a-vis India over 75 years or for India's intellectual hypocrisy in agreeing to face Pakistan in ICC tournaments yet barring any bilateral contact or tours. Unfortunately powerful nations don't always face the repercussions for hypocrisy and injustice.

But the last 15 years shows overheated rhetoric, lawsuits and false bravado doesn't work. Taking extreme public stances that inevitably require a U-turn doesn't work. Instead quietly cultivate alliances with other cricket boards behind the scenes (NOT just before a major event when these rows break out). Lobby the Govt to end the state stranglehold on TV rights to cricket and allow the private operators to compete thus driving up the value of our domestic broadcasting deals so we're not reliant on ICC funds. Maybe then our statements will be heard.

Point 2 is where the dilemma is.

You had an attention seeking YouTuber put on the PCB helm. He had no diplomacy skills and no executive level track record of an experience, no high level problem solving skills, no vision, no intellect, no nothing!

So based on his emotional and deyhaati mindset (that couldn’t be changed with a supposedly “MBA degree”) he starts blabbering.
Thumps his chest to threaten India of boycotting the WC if India doesn’t visit Pakistan to play Asia cup.
It was like a tormented mouse threatening a calm and composed elephant.

He gets kicked out - and another corrupt, dishonest and totally unqualified journalist is made the PCB chairman because he is the friends of Shareefs.

No intellect, no wisdom and no quality of being able to steer ship in the right direction - he picks up the precedent set by the MBA and starts blabbering the same non-sense like another emotional deyhaati - we will boycott the WC if India diesnt visit Pakistan.

India shows the middle finger - so he turns himself into a bigger clown by offering a hybrid model - which was not only unrealistic but totally laughable.

Now, India has shown him both middle fingers by taking the Asia cup out Pakistan.

What to do now?
You tell us.

You have the current and former PCB chairmen who have OFFICIALLY stated that they will boycott the WC if India doesn’t visit Pakistan.

More over,

This guy seems to have burned all the bridges ... with what face is he now going to host Pakistan (you know the "terrorism industry") into the heart of his country and in the biggest stadiums to play a cricket match?

 

[SentOff]

PCB should negotiate on the points it can negotiate on. This is not the hill to die on and being martyrs gets you nowhere. It does nothing for the players or the fans.

PCB should forward a simple proposal to ACC/SL that stipulates that SLC will host the event and cover all expenses. PCB will take all revenue from the event that a host is entitled to (including gate receipts, sponsorship, TV money). Again ask for the revenue and not profit.

 

[Savak]

News reporters are reporting that Sethi has now accepted the reality that the Asia Cup is not going to be held in Pakistan and his case has further weakened after the chaos in Pakistan following IK's arrest. However the PCB is angry with Sri Lanka's betrayal and their sneaky attempts to snatch the hosting rights from Pakistan especially given that the PCB had already swapped its T-20 Asia Cup hosting rights in favor of Sri Lanka in 2022 and therefore they are now getting even with Sri Lanka by refusing to host the Asia Cup in Sri Lanka and instead having the event hosted in UAE instead.

 

[Saj]

This mystery tri nation tournament that PCB wanted to organise.

Will that be against the giants Ireland, Zimbabwe, maybe UAE?

 

[MenInG]

News reporters are reporting that Sethi has now accepted the reality that the Asia Cup is not going to be held in Pakistan and his case has further weakened after the chaos in Pakistan following IK's arrest. However the PCB is angry with Sri Lanka's betrayal and their sneaky attempts to snatch the hosting rights from Pakistan especially given that the PCB had already swapped its T-20 Asia Cup hosting rights in favor of Sri Lanka in 2022 and therefore they are now getting even with Sri Lanka by refusing to host the Asia Cup in Sri Lanka and instead having the event hosted in UAE instead.

Almost makes sense!

 

[Ami]

Good.
Stand on your feet Pakistan!

 

[BunnyRabbit]

Almost makes sense!

Barr the Pakistani players from LPL. LPL isn't big enough to sustain itself currently. Hit them where it hurts. There's already no Indian players in LPL, without Pak players, their ratings will go even lower.

 

[Colorblind Genius]

This mystery tri nation tournament that PCB wanted to organise.

Will that be against the giants Ireland, Zimbabwe, maybe UAE?

who else wants to visit Pakistan in this current situation?

In all reality, the entire country is a big pile of mess - cricket is perhaps the least priority at this point.

The ship is sinking and we are worried about saving the LCD TV hanging in the captain's bedroom.

 

[shamaan]

who else wants to visit Pakistan in this current situation?

In all reality, the entire country is a big pile of mess - cricket is perhaps the least priority at this point.

The ship is sinking and we are worried about saving the LCD TV hanging in the captain's bedroom.

I don't think they should invite anyone for a tri series in this mess.

 

[gazza619]

This mystery tri nation tournament that PCB wanted to organise.

Will that be against the giants Ireland, Zimbabwe, maybe UAE?

It will be plain stupid.

Lets just play Asia Cup in SL

 

[gazza619]

News reporters are reporting that Sethi has now accepted the reality that the Asia Cup is not going to be held in Pakistan and his case has further weakened after the chaos in Pakistan following IK's arrest. However the PCB is angry with Sri Lanka's betrayal and their sneaky attempts to snatch the hosting rights from Pakistan especially given that the PCB had already swapped its T-20 Asia Cup hosting rights in favor of Sri Lanka in 2022 and therefore they are now getting even with Sri Lanka by refusing to host the Asia Cup in Sri Lanka and instead having the event hosted in UAE instead.

Thank u Sethi for the embarrassment.

 

[Markhor]

More over,

This guy seems to have burned all the bridges ... with what face is he now going to host Pakistan (you know the "terrorism industry") into the heart of his country and in the biggest stadiums to play a cricket match?

Very good points CBG. For a supposedly educated, well travelled, and respected broadcaster - Ramiz's brash statements were something you'd hear from a teenage Youtuber looking for clicks. Remember the "blank check" that was waiting for us if we beat India at the 2021 World Cup ?

I wonder where that blank check went because our domestic cricketers didn't even get paid on time last season.

As for Sethi, he's a media man and these bold threats are simply for media consumption.

In any negotiation you don't make threats the other party knows you simply cannot back up otherwise they'll call your bluff. India knows there's no chance we'll boycott the 2023 World Cup and highly unlikely we'll boycott the Asia Cup.

Again I'm not unsympathetic to PCB's dilemma, and I'm not saying we must simply appease India, but they should've learned by now after 15 years of frozen Indo-Pak relations that megaphone diplomacy doesn't help.

 

[Savak]

Very good points CBG. For a supposedly educated, well travelled, and respected broadcaster - Ramiz's brash statements were something you'd hear from a teenage Youtuber looking for clicks. Remember the "blank check" that was waiting for us if we beat India at the 2021 World Cup ?

I wonder where that blank check went because our domestic cricketers didn't even get paid on time last season.

As for Sethi, he's a media man and these bold threats are simply for media consumption.

In any negotiation you don't make threats the other party knows you simply cannot back up otherwise they'll call your bluff. India knows there's no chance we'll boycott the 2023 World Cup and highly unlikely we'll boycott the Asia Cup.

Again I'm not unsympathetic to PCB's dilemma, and I'm not saying we must simply appease India, but they should've learned by now after 15 years of frozen Indo-Pak relations that megaphone diplomacy doesn't help.

To be fair any PCB Chairman would be under pressure from their domestic audience and opposition political parties i.e. why did you blindly accept all of India's demands without putting up a fight.

 

[cricketAXEpert]

Or Pakistan isn't playing very smartly.

That is true. Looks like PCB forgot that other teams not coming Pakistan was only due to security (as they feared for their lives). All those other teams were playing bilaterally at other venues. However Pakistan India cricketing relations were not good besides the local security issue. There was no improvement at the level. So it was wrong to expect India to show up in the first place.

 

[Savak]

Again speculation in the media. Latest reports as per the youtube channel of a senior Pakistan sports reporter is that Sethi has not back tracked from the PCB position that the Asia Cup has to be played in Pakistan with India playing its games outside Pakistan. In order to address the logistical concerns off Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Afghanistan and co, Sethi even presented a revised itenary, schedule where all the games in Pakistan would be played in Lahore and all of India's games would be played in Dubai and he showed the logistical costs of travelling and lodging would be covered under ACC's budget and all the team's would get sufficient rest.

Based on the revised plan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan were not really able to object to it from a travelling, logistical and cost point of view. Sethi also showed the emails he received from these boards where they did not object to playing the Asia Cup in Pakistan originally and he expressed his disappointment with these countries for now back tracking under pressure from the BCCI. He also threatened that if the Asia Cup was pulled out of Pakistan, not only would the PCB pull out from the Asia Cup but also withdraw from the ACC as the purpose of the ACC was to bring the Asia countries together but the forum is proving to be a toothless body. Sethi also threatened that taking the Asia Cup away from Pakistan could have an impact on them touring India for the ODI WC in October.

Right now the Asian Cricket Council has promised to look into Sethi's revised proposal, schedule for the Asia Cup and get back to the PCB in a few weeks time.

 

[Ryw]

I was thinking, in current scenario in Pak, "Allah ka shukar ha NZ team time sy chali gyi" Forget about Asia Cup and and play ur home games far away from Pak

 

[Colorblind Genius]

mixed reports.
Probably just rumors


Sri Lankan media rejects India’s claims about shifting of Asia Cup

https://www.economy.pk/sri-lankan-m...RaYSV_seLytpnoYmrIX9lXmRENexzUhvmPQCtN8est-Ac



After Pakistan; Sri Lanka and Bangladesh don’t want to play in Asia Cup 2023

https://crictoday.com/cricket/news/...angladesh-dont-want-to-play-in-asia-cup-2023/

 

[MenInG]

As per a report:

Najam Sethi, the head of the PCB management committee, recently travelled to the UAE for important meetings in this regard with officials of Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and Emirates Cricket Board. According to sources, on Tuesday, Sethi had a meeting with ACC Vice President, Pankaj Khimji, where he presented further details about the hybrid model.

During the meeting, Sethi presented the proposed schedule and alterations to the hybrid model, in an attempt to save the Asia Cup.

According to the proposed schedule, four matches will take place in Pakistan, whereas the remaining seven matches and the final will be held in UAE.

All four teams except India - Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Nepal will come to Pakistan once to play their matches, and then all four teams along with the Men in Green will travel to Dubai via chartered flights for the remaining games.

During the meeting, Pankaj raised the question that whether it will be possible logistically and whether the broadcasters will feel comfortable carrying crew and equipment between the two countries. In response, Sethi said that they will only have to travel to Pakistan once, hence there should be no issue of repeatedly going back and forth.

Similarly, if there is an issue with Indian broadcasters coming to Pakistan, PCB has also offered to handle the TV production in Pakistan.

When the question of Dubai's heat arose, Sethi replied that such reservations were not mentioned when the IPL and the Asia Cup took place in similar weather conditions.

ACC is expected to provide a response regarding the proposed schedule after discussions with ACC President, Jay Shah.

 

[RajBan]

Will PCB be ready to host Asia cup in Pakistan now if BCCI decides to send a team? Will they be able to ensure a smooth execution of the tournament given the volatility across the country?

 

[Dagestani_Eagle]

Will PCB be ready to host Asia cup in Pakistan now if BCCI decides to send a team? Will they be able to ensure a smooth execution of the tournament given the volatility across the country?

Why not?

Pakistan played in Srilanka when srilankan President was fleeing the country

 

[The_Last_Samurai]

Why not?

Pakistan played in Srilanka when srilankan President was fleeing the country

There was no firing on the streets and tanks were not on the roads. People were not being shot in their heads. Women were not dragged and beaten on the roads..Public property was not being burnt like anything...Even the Talibanis wont agree to tour Pak at the moment...

 

[Rana]

This mystery tri nation tournament that PCB wanted to organise.

Will that be against the giants Ireland, Zimbabwe, maybe UAE?

Full strength squads to maintain individual and team rankings InshaAllah

 

[MenInG]

New Delhi: The 2023 edition of Asia Cup 2023 was set to take place in Pakistan but after India's refusal to travel Pakistan for the 50-over event, there are dark clouds over the future of it. Amid great confusion, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Najam Sethi has made an interesting suggestion and said that he wants the Asia Cup 2023 to be held in the United Kingdom. He also said that being the host it is the choice of Pakistan as to where the tournament could be held.

"England could be a possibility as a venue for the Asia Cup," he said in a conversation on Sports Hour.

Earlier, Sethi told TOI that PCB is exploring options of organising a Tri-series in case Pakistan pull out of Asia Cup.

"We rest on hope. But the thing is, we've to be prepared that if the hope doesn't materialise, what do we do? So, I must tell you that I've asked my team to make alternative arrangements to hold a three-nation tournament during the same time, if the Asia Cup is going to be played without Pakistan. I hope it doesn't come to that. I hope we all play the Asia Cup. May the best team win!", said Najam Sethi.

https://www.cricketcountry.com/news...or-the-asia-cup-pcb-chief-nazam-sethi-1090817

 

[YousafTheBeast]

LOL [MENTION=131701]Mamoon[/MENTION] - you still think he’s the best chairman?

To sum up Sethi (paraphrasing) :- “Asia Cup will be held in Pakistan, with or without India”.

- “Asia Cup can be held in Pakistan and India can play their games in a neutral venue”.

- “If India don’t accept the hybrid model then we can play the first 4 games in Pakistan and the rest in UAE”.

- “If the hosting rights are taken away from us we’ll have to boycott the Asia cup”.

- “if India don’t come to Pakistan we won’t go to India.

And now today, “England could be a possibility as a venue for the Asia Cup”.

By far the worst chairman in Pakistan history.


I won’t be surprised if Najam Sethi lets BCCI choose which grounds they want to play in. India will get all their games in London, whereas Pakistan will be playing in Manchester, Cardiff and then down to London.

 

[MenInG]

Full strength squads to maintain individual and team rankings InshaAllah

Another own goal for the new PCB admin.

 

[Firebat]

Shifting the entire Asia Cup to SL would be a big embarrassment/failure for PCB, and set a terrible precedent for coming years.

 

[MenInG]

Shifting the entire Asia Cup to SL would be a big embarrassment/failure for PCB, and set a terrible precedent for coming years.

What other options does PCB have?

 

[msb314]

What other options does PCB have?

Pull out of Asia Cup - plain and simple. Go to the 2023 WC and see how everything plays out by 2025 CT.

Otherwise we will never play another tournament in Pakistan again….

Short Term Loss for Long Term Gain

 

[AamchiMumbaikar]

That is a gutsy decision and appreciate pcb for the same.

They should also boycott CWC for a change if they are not given neutral venue. That will ruffle up bcci n icc and will make sure we never bully them in future.

 

[Shafi]

That is a gutsy decision and appreciate pcb for the same.

They should also boycott CWC for a change if they are not given neutral venue. That will ruffle up bcci n icc and will make sure we never bully them in future.

When you have money you can bully others. BCCI has enough money to ignore revenue from Ind-Pak matches. But PCB should boycott World Cup for self pride. ICC still will make money but tournaments will loose its charm.

 

[Saj]

PCB seems confused, with a new strategy almost every day.

This is weakening their position.

 

[gazza619]

Plz make sure to organise a few Pakistan games in Edgbaston.

 

[MenInG]

Najam Sethi in an interview:

“ACC is incomplete without Pakistan, and we don't want to leave it,”

“I hope we will continue to be part of the ACC. The majority of ACC's revenue comes from India and Pakistan. If Pakistan boycotts the Asia Cup, it will create major problems for broadcasters"

“There is no security issue in Pakistan. The New Zealand team toured at a time when protests were going on in the country. Security at the presidential level is provided to teams coming to Pakistan"

 

[cricketjoshila]

There is no security issue in Pakistan.

Presidential level and is provided.

Anyone sees the irony here.

 

[YousafTheBeast]

There is no security issue in Pakistan.

Presidential level and is provided.

Anyone sees the irony here.

You think teams would come to Pakistan without presidential security even if there weren’t any security issues over the past year or so?

 

[hitthestump]

There is no security issue in Pakistan.

Presidential level and is provided.

Anyone sees the irony here.

No, seems perfectly logical to me. Clearly what he means is with presidential security there is no more security risk than there would be anywhere else. You are intentionally trying to find an angle which suits your agenda.

 

[RajBan]

In my view Pakistan should boycott Asia cup . Let ACC try to remain relevant with a major stakeholder dropping off.

 

[cricketjoshila]

You think teams would come to Pakistan without presidential security even if there weren’t any security issues over the past year or so?

No they won't.

Because there are security issues in Pakistan.

 

[cricketjoshila]

No, seems perfectly logical to me. Clearly what he means is with presidential security there is no more security risk than there would be anywhere else. You are intentionally trying to find an angle which suits your agenda.

There are security issues thats why presidential level security is required.

That should be clearly said.

 

[ahsan17]

No they won't.

Because there are security issues in Pakistan.

You are wasting time on technicalities that don't matter and no one cares about. Teams are willing to tour Pakistan for a full series, that's what matters.

 

[Dr_Bassim]

No they won't.

Because there are security issues in Pakistan.

Every country has security issues to an extent.

If we offer them Presidential security and have so far succeeded in holding the series emphatically without any events, why would you hold that AGAINST Pakistan?

Name me a country which has NEVER had security issues ever?

 

[Savak]

There are security issues thats why presidential level security is required.

That should be clearly said.

Doesn't the BCCI and IPL Franchises pay for security when International teams tour India and during the IPL? Why is that expenditure needed if India is totally safe?

 

[cricketjoshila]

Doesn't the BCCI and IPL Franchises pay for security when International teams tour India and during the IPL? Why is that expenditure needed if India is totally safe?

Security and presidential level security are two different things.

 

[cricketjoshila]

Every country has security issues to an extent.

If we offer them Presidential security and have so far succeeded in holding the series emphatically without any events, why would you hold that AGAINST Pakistan?

Name me a country which has NEVER had security issues ever?

I don't hold it against Pakistan. Pakistan is doing whatever is necessary to get teams to tour.

Security issues in Pakistan are greater hence the need for such high level security.

The PCB chairman should say we give foolproof security and not that we have no security issues.

 

[light]

Every country has security issues to an extent.

If we offer them Presidential security and have so far succeeded in holding the series emphatically without any events, why would you hold that AGAINST Pakistan?

Name me a country which has NEVER had security issues ever?

It's a good idea sometimes to listen to people from other countries and judge why your POV vs their POV isn't aligned.

Simply put, Pakistan has tarnished its reputation globally (through several political events - not related to cricket). Pretty sure it's not as bad as the media portrays it to be and not much worst than the current Asian countries. When election time comes, all Asian countries are alike, battles from different parties take on the field, people get killed, etc. But it takes forever to build a reputation, only 1 event to tarnish it for a long-long time.

Unfortunately for Pak, you guys took the L the moment SL players got shot at, you may think it's been years, why does it matter, well it does matter. Because right there and then it proved that your security is a joke and it was for the world to see. Even teams like BD/SL hesitates to tour PAK, even though similar political tensions exist in their country too, however, their image is much better globally than PAK (I am leaving IND out of this discussion because IND V PAK is a different type of quarrel politically).

What cricketjoshila is trying to explain is clear to me, and many non-Pakistanis (and hopefully to Pakistanis too). For some reason, you guys don't see it the same way. I am not sure why?

His POV: If you need to provide Presidential Security - means your country isn't as safe as you may think it is. There might actually be danger around which could be life threatening and isn't safe without security.
Regular security, each country provides to other visiting teams because it is necessary to prevent fans from harassing players/crazy people trying to attempt something/etc. If Pak is able to start hosting teams without giving presidential security, it might start shifting the image of danger. That's how it works, unfortunately.

P.S Don't think I don't feel bad for you guys, I do like many others, you guys have a good team but have to deal with this nonsense, but this is the situation, and am just telling you how it is.

 

[Colorblind Genius]

Every country has security issues to an extent.

If we offer them Presidential security and have so far succeeded in holding the series emphatically without any events, why would you hold that AGAINST Pakistan?

Name me a country which has NEVER had security issues ever?

We may not even need to provide presidential level security do any visiting team if we either request our army generals to spare the visiting teams or dismantle the army’s top brass.

IMO, almost every terrorist attack happened in Pakistan has the army traces behind it. I won’t be surprised if the attack on Sri Lankan team was also orchestrated by the army.
A destabilized Pakistan fetches more hand outs from the western world that results in bigger chunks of budget reserved for army - and then these haram khores all hog on it.

 

[Titan24]

His POV: If you need to provide Presidential Security - means your country isn't as safe as you may think it is. There might actually be danger around which could be life threatening and isn't safe without security.
Regular security, each country provides to other visiting teams because it is necessary to prevent fans from harassing players/crazy people trying to attempt something/etc. If Pak is able to start hosting teams without giving presidential security, it might start shifting the image of danger. That's how it works, unfortunately.

Presidential level security is being provided to ensure teams that they will be safe, as the reputation was damaged from the incident of 2009. It doesn’t necessarily mean that there are security issues that is forcing the security to be such, more like an extra cushion for the time being so that everyone visits.

When Pakistan wasn’t hosting cricket in early 2010s there were genuine security issues as the stats would prove as well but, country is almost as safe as it has ever been or any other country in the south-asian region.

 

[Shafi]

Sethi is too talkative!!! Because he talks too much its make BCCI feel to bully us. Instead just Boycott Asia Cup and WC and let ICC loose some bucks. BCCI may change tone.
Ramiz would do same as well. Mani would lie down in front of BCCI. All these bunch of spineless people.

 

[Liverpool_Faizan]

What’s certain from all of this is how useless the ICC actually is lol

 

[Savak]

Sethi is too talkative!!! Because he talks too much its make BCCI feel to bully us. Instead just Boycott Asia Cup and WC and let ICC loose some bucks. BCCI may change tone.
Ramiz would do same as well. Mani would lie down in front of BCCI. All these bunch of spineless people.

Sethi is handling this well. He is giving all stakeholders a chance to understand and listen to the PCB point of view and he has proven that the PCB has made compromises at their end and have been reasonable and that the other side is the one that are being arrogant and unreasonable.

 

[light]

Presidential level security is being provided to ensure teams that they will be safe, as the reputation was damaged from the incident of 2009. It doesn’t necessarily mean that there are security issues that is forcing the security to be such, more like an extra cushion for the time being so that everyone visits.

When Pakistan wasn’t hosting cricket in early 2010s there were genuine security issues as the stats would prove as well but, country is almost as safe as it has ever been or any other country in the south-asian region.

As I said in my previous comment, I have no doubt that PAK's security level is any different than SL/BD/IND at the current moment. But what a lot of pak population and pp'ers don't understand is that foreigners don't research about your country or look up pak news to find out what's happening. Neither does most Pak population doing it for other countries either. Most news about Pak comes up in front of our eyes when something terrible is happening (recently Imran Khan's arrest and how the population is reacting to it). And this type of news comes out of pak more often than not compared to IND/SL/BD. And then each time a team is visiting, and we hear it's presidential security (but also knowing SL was promised something like that in 2009 - and look what happened), automatically one would think it's not safe there.

this is why what I said is important:
If Pak is able to start hosting teams without giving presidential security, it might start shifting the image of danger. That's how it works, unfortunately.

It doesn't matter what you or the rest of PAK think. The point is to change the image of pak to the visitors and foreign media. Image matters, and sadly Pakistan has none to stand on. This is the sad reality. This is beyond cricket at this point, it's up to your government to fix this.

 

[Firebat]

I'm hopeful a hybrid model can be worked out. We need the practise.

 

[DeadlyVenom]

As I said in my previous comment, I have no doubt that PAK's security level is any different than SL/BD/IND at the current moment. But what a lot of pak population and pp'ers don't understand is that foreigners don't research about your country or look up pak news to find out what's happening. Neither does most Pak population doing it for other countries either. Most news about Pak comes up in front of our eyes when something terrible is happening (recently Imran Khan's arrest and how the population is reacting to it). And this type of news comes out of pak more often than not compared to IND/SL/BD. And then each time a team is visiting, and we hear it's presidential security (but also knowing SL was promised something like that in 2009 - and look what happened), automatically one would think it's not safe there.

this is why what I said is important:
If Pak is able to start hosting teams without giving presidential security, it might start shifting the image of danger. That's how it works, unfortunately.

It doesn't matter what you or the rest of PAK think. The point is to change the image of pak to the visitors and foreign media. Image matters, and sadly Pakistan has none to stand on. This is the sad reality. This is beyond cricket at this point, it's up to your government to fix this.

Thankfully most teams rely on the assessment of their security advisors and not conducted an assessment based on the perception of random Indians online.

You may have had a point if the majority of the cricket world had not undertaken an assessment of Pakistan and deemed it ok to tour.

 

[moghul]

I have no problem with Pakistan not playing Asia Cup or World Cup and most Pakistan fans should be okay with it. Keep your self respect and don't bow down to the dictatorship that exist in International Cricket.

Absolutely.

 

[light]

Thankfully most teams rely on the assessment of their security advisors and not conducted an assessment based on the perception of random Indians online.

You may have had a point if the majority of the cricket world had not undertaken an assessment of Pakistan and deemed it ok to tour.

If you can't get past being delusional, not sure what else to tell you. This isn't a Indian pov, rather world pov. If I remember correctly, some English cricketers (Morgan I believe) did not want to tour even though their board said it's safe. It has nothing to do with safety or security, but the image. Well it is what it is. I said my 2 cent regarding this subject.

 

[IAJ]

I have no problem with Pakistan not playing Asia Cup or World Cup and most Pakistan fans should be okay with it. Keep your self respect and don't bow down to the dictatorship that exist in International Cricket.

Moreover right now it's more important to focus on stability in Pakistan rather than thinking about Asia Cup or World Cup. I personally have no issues with Pakistan opting out of these two tournaments. But people can and will disagree, no issues with that either.

 

[DeadlyVenom]

If you can't get past being delusional, not sure what else to tell you. This isn't a Indian pov, rather world pov. If I remember correctly, some English cricketers (Morgan I believe) did not want to tour even though their board said it's safe. It has nothing to do with safety or security, but the image. Well it is what it is. I said my 2 cent regarding this subject.

I don't believe Morgan has publicly mentioned Pakistan. His issue was with Bangladesh in the past.

When the majority of the cricket world has toured then it's hardly a world pov

Now you tell me who is delusional? Me who is giving you evidence that teams have undertaken detailed security checks with credible advisors and visited Pakistan successfully. Or you, who is rambling on a forum and declaring himself the spokesman of the whole world?

 

[Dr_Bassim]

Absolutely.

Moreover right now it's more important to focus on stability in Pakistan rather than thinking about Asia Cup or World Cup. I personally have no issues with Pakistan opting out of these two tournaments. But people can and will disagree, no issues with that either.

Obviosusly no issues for you because your paycheck is healthy and on time.


I suppose you will also pay PCB the 90 million odd USD they stand to lose by not playing the World Cup?

Or that is PCBs own problem?

 

[Saj]

Statement after statement from PCB. Meanwhile BCCI keeping their cards close to their chest and not revealing their plans.

I know which method, I prefer.

 

[light]

I don't believe Morgan has publicly mentioned Pakistan. His issue was with Bangladesh in the past.

When the majority of the cricket world has toured then it's hardly a world pov

Now you tell me who is delusional? Me who is giving you evidence that teams have undertaken detailed security checks with credible advisors and visited Pakistan successfully. Or you, who is rambling on a forum and declaring himself the spokesman of the whole world?

Never said that nor do I think you understood my POV (or unwilling to understand). Am not just talking about cricket tours only, talking about in general how people view Pakistan globally, it's not a secret either. Hopefully one day your government sorts this mess out. Anyways, moving on from this pointless discussion ...

 

[nextover666666]

Never said that nor do I think you understood my POV (or unwilling to understand). Am not just talking about cricket tours only, talking about in general how people view Pakistan globally, it's not a secret either. Hopefully one day your government sorts this mess out. Anyways, moving on from this pointless discussion ...

Interesting I live In Canada, and the view on Indians and India is good either, and that is no secret as well.

 

[cricketjoshila]

Interesting I live In Canada, and the view on Indians and India is good either, and that is no secret as well.

Yet Canada is trying to negotiate and sign a FTA with India. Despite the fact that Trudeau isn't a very pro Indian leader.

 

[nextover666666]

Yet Canada is trying to negotiate and sign a FTA with India. Despite the fact that Trudeau isn't a very pro Indian leader.

The general public dont have a good view of India or Indians, its the sad reality. Indians think the west loves them and accepted them like a western nation.

 

[cricketjoshila]

The general public dont have a good view of India or Indians, its the sad reality. Indians think the west loves them and accepted them like a western nation.

And they come and tell this to Pakistanis. Right?

 

[gazza619]

And they come and tell this to Pakistanis. Right?

Right

 

[MenInG]

While acknowledging that he had not yet seen the new hybrid model for the tournament, the BCCI official emphasized that the BCCI's position remained unchanged.

"I haven't seen the new hybrid model so far"

"There is no change in our stance. We want Asia Cup to be shifted from Pakistan due to political unrest there"

"Hot weather of the UAE will not be suitable for players. We can't compromise on players' safe".

 

[Bhaag Viru Bhaag]

If you can't get past being delusional, not sure what else to tell you. This isn't a Indian pov, rather world pov. If I remember correctly, some English cricketers (Morgan I believe) did not want to tour even though their board said it's safe. It has nothing to do with safety or security, but the image. Well it is what it is. I said my 2 cent regarding this subject.

Then why did NZ, Eng and Aus toured Pakistan recently? Are they not looking at the image of Pakistan? You are concentrating on one or two players who don't feel safe but you are deliberately ignoring the whole team visiting Pakistan.

 

[ahsan17]

While acknowledging that he had not yet seen the new hybrid model for the tournament, the BCCI official emphasized that the BCCI's position remained unchanged.

"I haven't seen the new hybrid model so far"

"There is no change in our stance. We want Asia Cup to be shifted from Pakistan due to political unrest there"

"Hot weather of the UAE will not be suitable for players. We can't compromise on players' safe".

This is hilarious.

Haven't seen the new hybrid model -> obviously a lie. It has been repeated 1000s of times just on media.

Asia Cup shifted due to political unrest -> yet NZ didn't give two sh*ts. Besides, under hybrid model Indian players aren't even traveling to Pakistan, so what's the point.

This is like talking to a dementia patient, to be honest.

 

[nextover666666]

And they come and tell this to Pakistanis. Right?

They come tell it to other Canadians or Westerners South Asia as a whole has a view from the West. INDIA is not excluded. India can try to behave and act like their a western nation but they will never be accepted as one of nations of the west.