Karachi: The International Cricket Council (ICC) Chairman Greg Barclay, and CEO, Geoff Allardice, are scheduled to meet with the Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Najam Sethi, at the PCB's headquarters in Lahore. The purpose of the meeting is to address the concerns regarding Pakistan's participation in the upcoming ODI World Cup, set to commence on October 5 in India.
In addition to Najam Sethi, the ICC officials will also meet with Barrister Salman Naseer, the Chief Operating Officer of the PCB, as well as other senior board officials. The discussions aim to gain a better understanding of the situation and find a resolution to the current deadlock. Both parties recognize the significance of an India versus Pakistan match, and it is crucial to avoid a scenario where the game takes place in Dhaka, as it would not only negatively impact the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) but also reflect poorly on the ICC as a whole.
According to a PCB insider as per a report carried by PTI, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Nepal have expressed their willingness to play a few matches in Pakistan, while suggesting that the remaining matches of the tournament could be held in Sri Lanka during September.
This visit marks Greg Barclay's first time in Pakistan, although Geoff Allardice has been to Lahore on several occasions since assuming his role in the ICC. Notably, this is the first time since October 2004 that the top two ICC officials will visit the PCB headquarters, signifying the importance and urgency of the discussions.
Meanwwhile there is no absolute clarity regarding the Asia Cup 2023 as well. While the tournamen is officially set to be hosted by Pakistan, India has remain adamant on sending its team to its neighbouring country. However, that is Asian Cricket Council (ACC) event which is currently being headed by BCCI Secretary Jay Shah which means India's stance has remained firm. It remains to be seen what happens in this regard with PCB suggesting a neutral venue for India games with the rest of the matches remaining in Pakistan.
(With Inputs From PTI)