The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has revealed the schedule and fixtures of Asia Cup 2023. Nepal, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Afghanistan are set to compete in the 13-match tournament.
The 50-over tournament will be played in a hybrid model with four matches being played in Pakistan and the other nine matches will be played in Sri Lanka. Pakistan were the initial host, but India were unwilling to travel to Pakistan due to political tensions. Hence, the hybrid model was suggested as an alternative solution.
Nepal will face Pakistan in the tournament opener in Multan on the 30th of August. Then both sides will fly to Sri Lanka, where they will play a match against India. Bangladesh vs Afghanistan and Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan will be played in Lahore along with the first match of Super 4s.
The much anticipated India vs Pakistan is set to be played in Kandy on September Second. Nepal will face India in Kandy on September 4. The Final match will be played in Colombo on September 17.
I am happy to announce the schedule for the highly anticipated Men's ODI #AsiaCup2023, a symbol of unity and togetherness binding diverse nations together! Let's join hands in the celebration of cricketing excellence and cherish the bonds that connect us all. @ACCMedia1 pic.twitter.com/9uPgx6intP
— Jay Shah (@JayShah) July 19, 2023
Asia Cup, which will be played in the 50-over format, serves as a preparation for the World Cup 2023 in India. Pakistan, Nepal and India are placed in Group A, while Afghanistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are in Group B.
Nepal played the last group stage match of the ACC Emerging Teams Asia Cup today against UAE A. They ended the campaign with a consolation win after suppering a defeat against Pakistan A and India A.
Nepal qualified for the Asia Cup, being the champions of the ACC Premier Cup. Nepal defeated UAE on the reserve day of the final at TU Cricket Ground to ensure a spot in the tournament.
