BCCI rubbishes talks of Asia Cup in Sri Lanka, truncated IPL

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has brushed aside the rumours that this year’s Asia Cup will take place in Sri Lanka.

After the recent Asian Cricket Council (ACC) meeting, it was widely reported that Sri Lanka and Pakistan have agreed to swap hosting rights for the 2020 and 2022 editions of the tournament.

Pakistan is the designated host for this year’s event but their strained relationship with arch-rivals India could lead to shifting of the event to a neutral venue.   

"We have no idea where such reports are coming from and we’re surprised how fast these reports travel. The BCCI is clear that no decision was taken at the ACC meeting. The Board (BCCI) is tired of giving out these clarifications. Earlier it was about travelling to Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka, and BCCI had to deny it with a statement. Now this,” sources told Times of India.

ALSO READ: ‘Humble’ Babar Azam has edge over ‘aggressive’ Virat Kohli: Saqlain Muhstaq

The sources also stated that BCCI is not in favour of truncating the Indian Premier League inorder to accommodate the Asia Cup.

"Let’s be clear about that first. There won't be a truncated IPL just to host an Asia Cup. Those thinking on such lines are clearly not speaking in India's interests and the BCCI will not be party to it,” sources added.

The IPL is also preferred by the broadcasting industry because of the revenue it generates.  

“Even the World Cup in England was a loss-making event for the broadcaster and we're talking about an Asia Cup here. The IPL is a different beast altogether. Who're these people who refuse to understand the numbers? It’s in Indian cricket's best interests to host the IPL. What are we going to cater to? India's interests or PCB's interests?” say those who track the industry.