ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Wednesday formally approached the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President Jay Shah, seeking compensation for financial losses incurred due to washed-out matches during the ongoing Asia Cup 2023.
The move comes as the PCB expressed dissatisfaction with the unilateral decision to shift the Super 4 stage of the tournament from Hambantota to Colombo, citing concerns about adverse weather conditions.
In a letter addressed to ACC President Jay Shah, Management Committee Chairman Zaka Ashraf voiced strong objections to the seemingly arbitrary decision to relocate the Super 4 matches. The letter emphasized that the decision was made without proper consultation with the event’s host and without following due process. The PCB chief sought clarity on who made this decision and requested an official clarification.
The letter underlined the financial repercussions of the hasty scheduling changes, particularly in relation to gate receipts and the impact on the ACC Event’s brand value. It stated, “Who will be responsible for the loss of gate receipts to the PCB and the adverse impact on the ACC Event’s brand value should the matches be rained out in Colombo? The ACC will have to take responsibility for the washed-out matches, incremental costs if any, and also reimburse PCB for the losses of gate revenue.”
PCB’s Concerns Over ACC Decision-making
This development follows earlier confusion surrounding the Asia Cup 2023, where the ACC initially decided to shift the Super 4 matches to Hambantota due to an extended period of expected rainfall in Colombo. However, the decision was later reversed, and the matches were reinstated in Colombo as originally planned.
The sudden change in venue has not only created logistical challenges for the PCB but has also raised questions about the decision-making process within the ACC. Jay Shah, who also serves as the Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), has recently faced criticism for his involvement in late changes to the ICC World Cup 2023 schedule.
The PCB’s request for compensation highlights the seriousness of the issue and the financial implications for the board. As the Asia Cup 2023 unfolds, it remains to be seen how the ACC will respond to these demands and concerns raised by the PCB, which seeks to safeguard its interests and uphold the integrity of the tournament.
