Asia Cup 2023
Asia Cup 2023 Credits: Twitter

Former Pakistan Skipper Shahid Afridi lambasted the neighbouring cricket board–BCB for making excuses for not playing Asia Cup 2023 in the UAE, citing extremely hot conditions during September month. It was reported that Bangladesh Cricket Board has refused to accept the Pakistan hybrid model of the Asia Cup due to weather conditions in UAE.

According to various reports, Bangladesh players are unwilling to play their games in UAE just before the massive ODI World Cup India, as the extreme heat conditions can be difficult for the players to cope with, as the tournaments will be played in the 50-over format as preparation for the grand event in India.

Speaking to a local channel, Shahid Afridi criticized the players and boards for citing weather as the reason for their refusal to play the matches in the hybrid model, stating that they have played the games even in the morning and reckons as professional players everyone should be ready to play anywhere in the world, as it gives a great chance of testing their fitness levels and said these are excuses made by them

“You don’t play depending on the weather when you are professional cricketers. We played matches in Sharjah at 10 am. We used to feel dizzy when going towards the boundary line. It used to be so hot. These things happen but it also tests your fitness level,” Shahid Afridi said.

Shahid Afridi
Shahid Afridi Credits: Twitter

“If you want to make an excuse then you can come with anything like it is too hot in UAE. I think these are excuses,” he added.

The hybrid model was proposed by the PCB following India’s refusal to visit Pakistan citing security reasons,  which was not accepted by the other neighbouring nations, as they wanted the tournament to be moved out of the country.

Pakistan National Cricket Team
Pakistan National Cricket Team Credits: Twitter

Earlier it was reported that Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan have agreed to the BCCI’s demand of moving the Asia Cup 2023 out of Pakistan, as hosting the event in two countries would not be economically feasible for Asian Cricket Council.

It is said that Pakistan could take some bold moves if the tournament is moved out of the country and the huge decision could very well affect Pakistan’s chances of participating in this year’s 50-over World Cup.