Financial issues between Pakistan and Sri Lanka related to the 2023 Asia Cup have come to light, creating a serious scenario that requires immediate resolution between the parties. The previous continental event was held in Pakistan and Sri Lanka in a hybrid model.
It was previously reported that Pakistan considers it logistically and financially impossible to hold the event in two different locations. The issue came to light during his 2023 Asia Cup as the broadcaster refused to pay the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) the same amount as before due to the hybrid format.
The controversy began with the hosting of the Asian Cup, which was originally scheduled to be held in Pakistan. However, after India refused to join Pakistan, organizers moved the tournament to Sri Lanka and adopted a hybrid model.
The tournament was held in August and September last year, but there have been ongoing financial problems between the host countries since then.
According to reports, Sri Lankan cricket president Shammi Silva raised the issue of unpaid hotel bills during the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) meeting held in Bali, Indonesia. In response, ACC president Jay Shah asked Silva to initiate direct negotiations with thePakistan Cricket Board (PCB)to resolve the issue.
According to sources, Pakistan’s stance is based on pending verification of various invoices, which is hampering the flow of payments. Additionally, the issue of chartered flights remains a point of contention, with unresolved issues further straining relations between cricket associations.
The PCB claims that it should bear the additional costs as the Asian Cricket Council has decided not to host the entire Asia Cup in Pakistan. The situation was made worse because the flight was booked through Classic Travel, a Sri Lankan company with no pre-qualification.
The Pakistan Cricket Board prepaid $281,700 for four charter flights. In addition, they promised to pay Sri Lanka US$2,069,885 in venue fees, with 50% to be paid before the event and 25% thereafter. The remaining amount must be settled after the event according to agreed arrangements.
The Cricket Council of Asia was to provide Pakistan with a hosting fee of $2.5 million. However, controversy intensified as the event’s estimated cost was approximately $4 million. The original schedule, which was limited to Lahore, was modified by the PCB by adding Multan and holding the opening match in Lahore.
