Asia Cup 2022 may transfer from Sri Lanka to UAE

• Sri Lanka may not host the 2022 Asia Cup.
• The decision was made during this week’s Asian Cricket Council (ACC) meeting.
• SLC CEO Ashley de Silva blamed the fuel crisis and political upheaval.

Sri Lanka may not host the 2022 Asia Cup, despite having hosted Australia and Pakistan without serious problems. Sri Lanka Cricket will retain the official host, however the event will be contested in Dubai and Sharjah from August 27 to September 11. The decision was made during this week’s Asian Cricket Council (ACC) meeting, which is worried about Sri Lanka’s fuel deficit.

Despite the country’s economic and political crises, Sri Lanka Cricket was “quite optimistic” of hosting the Asia Cup until last week. Enraged demonstrators invaded the homes of Sri Lanka’s president and prime minister to demand reform. The demonstrations didn’t affect Australia’s cricket trip, which comprised two Tests, five ODIs, and three T20Is. Pakistan will play two Tests in Galle.

Hosting bilateral series is distinct from hosting the T20 Asia Cup, which will involve nine countries.

“Host two teams, not 10,” SLC CEO Ashley de Silva told . “Fuel 10 buses. Every team needs a fuel-filled baggage van and management transportation. You must also provide sponsors with transportation and maximise their sponsorship. Floodlight generator fuel must also be obtained.”

The ACC will likely schedule India and Pakistan to play twice in the league phase of the Asia Cup. Several thousand supporters from both nations would normally travel to Sri Lanka, but de Silva thought the fuel crisis and political upheaval would prevent them.

“There are also two India vs Pakistan matches, and there will be people who want to travel and watch those matches. People might not be happy to travel to Sri Lanka because of the situation.” de Silva said.

ACC will pay Asia Cup costs, thus SLC won’t lose money. Sri Lankan hotels and transport companies would lose.

Rainy season in June through September limits the ACC’s backup location options. The UAE boasts good infrastructure and transportation, although late August and early September are hot and humid. So, fights may begin early.

UAE hasn’t won in five years. The 50-overs tournament ran from September 15-28 in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.

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