Pakistan seeks venue swap for Afghanistan, Australia World Cup matches

Pakistan analysts have started examining the data concerning the World Cup 2023 venues for the national team. In light of their request, they [PCB] have expressed their desire to play their match against Australia in Chennai instead of Afghanistan. 

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is insisting Pakistan to play their match against India which is to be held in Ahmedabad. However, Pakistan has expressed reservations about this proposal, citing the need for approval from their government. This factor has contributed to a delay in announcing the schedule for the upcoming World Cup.

The ODI World Cup, which is scheduled to be held in India in October and November of this year, is currently awaiting the official schedule release by the ICC. However, recent developments have been concerning objections raised by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), indicating a different approach from them this time.

Pakistan analysts are examining venue data, and specific objections have been raised for various reasons. Some authorities believe India has intentionally proposed matches in venues where the Pakistan team may encounter challenges related to pitch conditions, practice facilities, and travel arrangements. These concerns have led to discussions and further analysis by the relevant parties involved.

Chennai's pitch has a reputation for favoring spinners, presenting a challenge for the Pakistan team in their upcoming match against Afghanistan, who possess talented slow bowlers. As a result, Pakistan has requested to relocate their match against Australia to Chennai and their match against Afghanistan to Bengaluru.

Meanwhile, the ICC has emphasized the significance of revenue and insists that the Pakistan-India match takes place at the Ahmedabad stadium, which can accommodate 100,000 spectators. However, Pakistan has taken the stance that they will seek permission from their government before making any commitments in this regard. They prioritize obtaining the necessary approvals before providing any assurance.

The analysts have provided the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) with comprehensive data about all the venues, highlighting their characteristics in terms of favoring spinners, pacers or offering favorable conditions for batters.

According to the proposed schedule by 'CricInfo' on June 11th the Pakistan team's initial two qualifying matches are slated for October 6th and 12th in Hyderabad Deccan. The highly anticipated Pakistan-India match in Ahmedabad is proposed for October 15th, followed by the match against Australia in Bengaluru on October 20th. The matches against Afghanistan and South Africa are scheduled to be held in Chennai on the 23rd and 27th, respectively. On October 31st, there will be a match against Bangladesh in Kolkata, and then will be playing against New Zealand in Bengaluru on November 5th. Finally, Pakistan will face England in Kolkata on November 12th.