The fate of the upcoming Asia Cup remains uncertain as discussions over the tournament's neutral venue continue. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has identified Dubai as a favored neutral location within a proposed hybrid model. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has firmly rejected the idea of sending their team to Pakistan and insists on a completely neutral venue for the entire tournament.

In an attempt to break the impasse, the PCB has suggested a hybrid model for the Asia Cup. Under this proposal, the initial four matches of the group stage would be played in Pakistan, while the subsequent phase, including India's matches and the finals, would take place at a neutral venue. As per the plan, Pakistan would host their group stage match against Nepal on their home ground, and Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan would also play their pool matches in Pakistan.

Within this hybrid framework, the PCB has designated Dubai as a preferred neutral location. However, objections have been raised by Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, who argue that playing day-night matches in the UAE during September would be extremely challenging for the players due to the scorching heat. The PCB contends that both the Asia Cup and the Indian Premier League (IPL) have previously been held in the UAE around the same time and under similar weather conditions, suggesting it should not pose a problem.

Amidst the deadlock, former PCB chairman Najam Sethi has presented England as an alternative venue for the Asia Cup. On the other hand, Sri Lanka Cricket is actively pursuing the opportunity to host the tournament in their own country.

A senior PCB official has revealed that a final decision on the Asia Cup venue is expected this week. While there are minimal objections to the hybrid model, the major point of contention remains the selection of a neutral venue for the second phase of the tournament.

PCB aims to begin the Asia Cup in Pakistan before moving it to either the UAE or England. Both countries have a significant number of Asian cricket fans, making it a potentially lucrative revenue source. However, India and other participating nations have expressed interest in playing their matches in Sri Lanka. The PCB is concerned about the potential decrease in gate revenue from hosting matches in Sri Lanka.

Efforts have been made by the Emirates Cricket Board to convince the BCCI to allow the UAE to host the second phase of the Asia Cup. However, no positive response has been received thus far.

Ahead of the BCCI's meeting regarding the 2023 World Cup and the Asia Cup on May 27, officials from Sri Lanka Cricket and the Bangladesh Cricket Board have been invited to attend the IPL final and will hold discussions with BCCI authorities.

The PCB has not received an official invitation, and even if one is extended, it may not be feasible to obtain visas within such a short timeframe.

It appears that the BCCI has accepted Pakistan's newly-proposed hybrid model for the Asia Cup. However, they are seeking assurance from the PCB that they will send their team to India for the World Cup. The PCB has clarified that the participation of the Pakistan team is contingent upon receiving government permission.

As discussions continue, cricket fans across the region eagerly await a final decision on the venue for the Asia Cup, which promises to be a thrilling tournament showcasing the talent and spirit of Asian cricket.