This construction has put the Global Cricket Council (ICC) in a difficult condition as they finalise the agenda for the extremely expected event.
Sethi’s remarks emerged following unanimous contract amongst all stakeholders, together with Jay Shah, the of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), to arrange the then Asia Cup the use of a hybrid fashion as advised via the PCB chairman.
“As far as India and Pakistan go, neither the PCB or the BCCI can take decisions. The respective governments only can take decisions,” Sethi stated throughout a press convention.
“It’s our government who has to decide, just like when it comes to India, it’s their government that decides when they go to play. There is no point asking us if we will play in Ahmedabad.
“When the month comes, first it’s going to be determined whether or not we’re going or no longer, after the federal government makes a decision the place we will be able to move. Our determination will remains on those two remarkable statuses,” he added.
The hybrid model was proposed as the Indian cricket board (BCCI) had made it clear that it won’t send its team to Pakistan due to the longstanding geo-political tensions between the two countries.
The approval of the Asia Cup’s schedule also meant that Pakistan would travel to India for the ODI World Cup in October-November. The arch-rivals are expected to face off at the world’s largest cricket stadium in Ahmedabad on October 15.
It is understood that once ICC CEO Geoff Allardice and chairman Greg Barclay visited Karachi to meet Sethi last month, it was decided that Pakistan won’t set any conditions for competing in the World Cup, provided four Asia Cup games are held in the country as they have the hosting rights.
Sethi further said, “We’ve instructed the ICC additionally that if our govt appears into the protection concerns and offers us permission, we will be able to come to play games in Republic of India. In the event that they don’t give, how are we able to come and play games in Republic of India?
“Even if the government gives us permission, we have to look at the venues and decide where to play. That comes later. Firstly, the government has to give us the nod. It has to tell us whether we can go or not.”
The Asia Cup will likely be held from August 31 to September 17 with Pakistan and Sri Lanka website hosting 4 and 9 fits respectively.
(With PTI Inputs)
