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In an effort to emphasize their commitment to keeping politics separate from cricket, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly invited Jay Shah, the Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and also the President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), along with other prominent officials from participating cricket boards, to attend the opening match of the Asia Cup 2023. The much-anticipated inaugural game is scheduled for August 30 and will feature Pakistan facing off against tournament debutants Nepal in a day-night fixture set to be held in Multan.
The initiative to extend this invitation follows a verbal offer made by PCB Chairman Zaka Ashraf to Jay Shah during their meeting in Durban for an ICC gathering, according to sources. This move was prompted by earlier reports in the Pakistani media that inaccurately claimed that Jay Shah had accepted Zaka Ashraf's invitation. Shah, however, clarified his position and denied having accepted any such invitation.
Originally planned to be hosted in Pakistan, the Asia Cup encountered a hurdle when the BCCI cited government restrictions and expressed its inability to send the Indian team across the border. After careful consideration, it was decided that the tournament would be co-hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka, with Pakistan hosting four matches and Sri Lanka hosting the remaining, including the final.
The PCB's recent invitation serves as a symbolic gesture to underscore their dedication to maintaining a separation between cricket and political matters. A source suggested that this move is intended to highlight Pakistan's stance on cricket relations with India, emphasizing the principle of keeping sports insulated from political disputes.
Despite the absence of bilateral cricket between India and Pakistan due to strained diplomatic ties, both teams continue to cross paths in ICC and continental events. Notably, Pakistan is set to travel to India later this year to participate in the ODI World Cup, indicating that cricket continues to bridge gaps even in the midst of political challenges.
