IND vs PAK Reserve Day: SL, BAN Clarify; Prasad Asks ‘What was the Pressure to Agree Unreasonable Demand?’

Asian Cricket Council’s (ACC) decision to keep a reserve day for the forthcoming India vs Pakistan Super Four tie in the ongoing Asia Cup 2023 has taken many by surprise. The arch-rivals are set to lock horns on Sunday in Colombo but the weather forecast doesn’t seem to be allowing a complete game at the R Premadasa Stadium which eventually prompted the ACC to keep a reserve day.

Interestingly, the high-voltage face-off between India and Pakistan is the only Super 4 game to have a reserve day.

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“A reserve day has been incorporated for the Super11 Asia Cup 2023 Super 4 match between India vs Pakistan scheduled to take place on 10th September 2023 at R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo,” the ACC said in an official statement.

“If adverse weather suspends play during the India vs Pakistan game, the match will continue on 11th September 2023 from the point it was suspended. In such an eventuality, ticket-holders are advised to hold on to their match tickets which will remain valid and will be utilised for the reserve day,” it added.

Cricket boards of Sri Lanka, Bangladesh react

A few media reports suggested that the coaches of the other two participant teams – Bangladesh and Sri Lanka – were unhappy with the decisions but their cricket boards have also confirmed that the decision has been taken after consulting with all four member boards of the Super 4 competing teams.

“A reserve day for India Pakistan contest in Super 11 Asia Cup Super 4 stage has been added that effectively revised the Asia Cup playing condition. To clarify on the position, the decision was taken with the consent of all four participating teams and ACC,” BCB posted on X.

“The reserve day for the India-Pakistan contest of the Super 11 Asia Cup Super 4 stage was taken in consultation with all four member boards of the Super 4 competing teams.

“Accordingly, the ACC effectively revised the playing conditions of the tournament to effect the agreed-upon change. #AsiaCup2023,” SLC stated.

‘What was the pressure?’ – Asks Venkatesh Prasad

Former India fast bowler Venkatesh Prasad wasn’t convinced with the clarifications as he questioned the statements issued by BCB and SLC, asking if there was any pressure to agree to this ‘unreasonable demand’.

“What was the pressure to agree on this unreasonable demand, when you aren’t getting a reserve day for your own matches ? Why so much generosity to ensure India vs Pakistan isn’t washed out even if it costs your own team a chance to qualify.  Can you please explain truly the intent and reason to do so,” Prasad asked.

Rain affected India’s Group Stage matches

Rain washed out the India vs Pakistan group-stage game in Pallekele last week, with both teams sharing a point each. It returned to affect the clash with Nepal, allowing India a 23-over chase which they mastered with 10 wickets in hand and qualified for the Super Fours.