‘Ashraf is free to say whatever he wants’ - ACC's befitting reply to PCB's likely chairman after his comments on Asia Cup’s hybrid model

Likely to return as the PCB’s (Pakistan Cricket Board) chairman very soon, Zaka Ashraf recently dropped a bombshell in a press conference where he gave his take on the hybrid model of the upcoming Asia Cup 2023. The hosting row of the Asia Cup has been home to many controversies. Originally, the tournament was slated to be hosted by Pakistan, however, due to the Indian team’s refusal to travel to the neighbouring country, a hybrid model of the competition was accepted. 

According to the hybrid model, the Asia Cup 2023 will be co-hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka, with India playing their matches in Sri Lanka. Talking about the same model, Ashraf lambasted the ACC and opined that he would try to make changes in the model in the little time that is available. 

Upon Ashraf’s comments, an ACC board member came forward to opine on the matter and gave a fitting response to Ashraf scrutinising the hybrid model of the tournament.

"The Asia Cup model has been accepted by ACC and there would be no change. Ashraf is free to say whatever he wants," the ACC board member was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times. 

I don't agree with it: Ashraf

Talking about Zaka Ashraf’s comments on the Asia Cup’s hybrid model, he opined that an injustice has been done to Pakistan as only minor matches will be hosted by the country, with the major matches being held in Sri Lanka. He also stated that he will try to do what is in the best interest of the PCB in the little time that is available. 

"I don't agree with it. According to the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), the tournament should be held entirely in Pakistan. But major matches are played elsewhere, and only minor teams like Nepal play in Pakistan. Injustice has been done to Pakistan," Ashraf said during a media interaction in Islamabad.

"I will try to do what is in the best interest of Pakistan within the shortest possible time. There are many pending issues, and I am not delving deep into the matter since I haven't officially taken over," he added.