Following the India-Pakistan dispute, there are indications that Sri Lanka could be chosen as the venue for Asia Cup matches involving India, as the cricketing powerhouse has declined to visit Pakistan. An official from the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) stated that a formal announcement regarding the venue is expected in the upcoming week. Due to the longstanding political tensions and lack of matches held on each other’s soil since 2012, India and Pakistan typically face each other in international tournaments at neutral locations.

The unnamed board official mentioned that it is highly likely that some of the matches will be held in Sri Lanka, although official confirmation is yet to be received. Despite facing an economic crisis that led to defaulting on foreign debt and seeking assistance from the International Monetary Fund, Sri Lanka’s cricket board expressed its willingness to host matches. The official emphasized that despite the economic downturn, the country has the capability to organize an international tournament.

During the economic crisis, Sri Lanka successfully hosted the Australian cricket team, which played a series of T20 matches, ODIs, and Tests. The crisis resulted in widespread protests and the resignation of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who was accused of corruption and mismanagement.

To avoid a potential boycott of the World Cup in India by the Pakistan Cricket Board, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has been exploring alternatives to hold the Asia Cup at a neutral venue in September. The other participating nations in the tournament are Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Nepal.