In an exciting announcement, celebrated artists Aima Baig and Trishala Gurung are set to grace the stage at the grand inauguration of the Asia Cup 2023. The opening ceremony will take place in the vibrant city of Multan today, marking the commencement of this highly anticipated cricket tournament. The curtain-raiser will precede the first match of the event, featuring the host nation Pakistan against Nepal, at the iconic Multan Cricket Stadium.
The prestigious Asia Cup 2023, scheduled from August 30 to September 17, is jointly hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka. While the tournament promises thrilling cricket action, it also brings to light the challenges faced due to its dual-location format.
The event has been strategically divided between the two host countries, with a portion of the matches slated to be played in Pakistan and the rest in Sri Lanka. This division comes in response to security concerns raised by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which led to India’s decision not to participate in matches held in Pakistan.
The participating teams are grouped as follows: Group A consists of Pakistan, Nepal, and India, while Group B comprises Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Sri Lanka. This dynamic composition sets the stage for fierce competition and intense rivalries.
Notably, the format of the Asia Cup alternates between T20 and ODI (One Day International) formats since 2016. However, the 2023 edition takes on the 50-over format, strategically chosen to provide the teams with valuable preparation for the upcoming World Cup in India later this year.
The reigning champions of the 50-over Asia Cup are India, who secured their title in the last held edition in 2018. This year, as the cricketing world eagerly watches, a new champion will emerge to claim the coveted honor.
Full Schedule of Asia Cup 2023
Group Stage
- Aug 30: Pakistan vs Nepal in Multan at 2:30 pm (PST)
- Aug 31: Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka in Kandy at 2:30 pm (PST)
- Sept 2: Pakistan vs India in Kandy at 2:30 pm (PST)
- Sept 3: Bangladesh vs Afghanistan in Lahore at 2:30 pm (PST)
- Sept 4: India vs Nepal in Kandy at 2:30 pm (PST)
- Sept 5: Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka in Lahore at 2:30 pm (PST)
Super 4s
- Sept 6: A1 vs B2 in Lahore at 2:30 pm (PST)
- Sept 9: B1 vs B2 in Colombo at 2:30 pm (PST)
- Sept 10: A1 vs A2 in Colombo at 2:30 pm (PST)
- Sept 12: A2 vs B1 in Colombo at 2:30 pm (PST)
- Sept 14: A1 vs B1 in Colombo at 2:30 pm (PST)
- Sept 15: A2 vs B2 in Colombo at 2:30 pm (PST)
- Sept 17: Final in Colombo at 2:30 pm (PST)
- Pakistan retains position A1.
- India retains position A2.
- In case either India or Pakistan fail to qualify for the Super 4s, Nepal will assume their position.
- Sri Lanka retains position B1.
- Bangladesh retains position B2.
- In case either Sri Lanka or Bangladesh fail to qualify for the Super 4s, Afghanistan will take their position.
The Asia Cup 2023 promises cricket enthusiasts an unforgettable journey of thrilling matches, international camaraderie, and outstanding performances, all while paying heed to the region’s security considerations and sporting aspirations.
