Zaka Ashraf (R) and Jay Shah (L) will meet on Tuesday — BCCI/PCB

Kandy, Sri Lanka - After rain disrupted the high-stakes clash between Pakistan and India during the Asia Cup 2023 match on September 2 in Sri Lanka's Kandy city, concerns are rising over the unpredictable weather, and the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) is contemplating a change in venue for the remaining matches, according to sources close to the development.

The unexpected downpour on Saturday left cricket enthusiasts disappointed as the Pakistan-India encounter was marred by persistent showers. However, Pakistan managed to secure a spot in the Super 4s, despite not having to bat due to the weather interruptions.

Zaka Ashraf, Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Management Committee, took the initiative to contact ACC President Jay Shah to address the weather concerns and ensure that further matches in Colombo are not impacted by rainfall.

Expressing his apprehensions about the unpredictable climate of the tropical island, Ashraf conveyed his worries to Shah regarding the likelihood of more rain in Sri Lanka, contrasting it with the favorable weather conditions in Pakistan for the tournament to proceed without disruptions. "Asia Cup is a prestigious tournament and should not be affected by rain," emphasized Ashraf during his conversation with Shah, according to sources.

In response, Shah assured that the situation would be carefully considered. The ACC, PCB, and Sri Lanka Cricket are now grappling with the issue's impact on the Asia Cup 2023, and an emergency meeting of the ACC has been scheduled to discuss the potential relocation of matches from Colombo due to the adverse weather forecasts for the Sri Lankan capital.

Sources indicate that a decision regarding the venue change is expected within the next 24 to 36 hours, with Pakistan expressing its concerns over the situation's impact on the game.

Meanwhile, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with the accommodations provided to Team India in Dambulla city. Alleging that the hotels in Dambulla do not meet their standards, the BCCI has raised objections. Broadcasters have also reportedly expressed reservations about hotel arrangements in Hambantota, another Sri Lankan city with more favorable weather conditions.

Despite the draw in the September 2 match, Pakistan has successfully advanced to the Super 4s stage, having launched their Asia Cup 2023 campaign with an impressive 238-run victory over Nepal earlier in the week.

With the format of the Asia Cup in mind, it is likely that the archrivals, Pakistan and India, may face off once more on September 10, making the resolution of the weather-related challenges all the more urgent for tournament organizers and cricket fans worldwide.

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