'All is dependent on how we conduct the Australian series' - Secretary Mohan de Silva

Sri Lanka Cricket Board Secretary Mohan de Silva explains how shifting Asia Cup 2022 from Sri Lanka will affect their economic stability. 

According to a report, the recent economic instability in Sri Lanka has forced the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) to look for alternative venues for hosting the Asia Cup 2022. 

SLC CEO Mohan de Silva has said that no decision has been taken by the Asian Cricket Council regarding shifting the Asia Cup. 

Australia will kick start their tour of Sri Lanka in June, and ACC will monitor the series and the preparations before taking the final call on conducting in Sri Lanka.

“No final decision has been reached as yet. All is dependent on how we conduct the Australian series. Jay Shah [President, ACC] and other ACC officials have assured us that if all goes ok, Asia Cup will stay in Sri Lanka,” said SLC secretary Mohan de Silva, as quoted by InsideSport.

The SLC officials have requested the ACC during their visit to India to let them host the event.

The Sri Lankan Board could face a loss of over five million dollars if the tournament is moved to some other Asian country.

“Big revenues get generated by hosting teams like India and Pakistan. That’s why we are still trying to persuade the countries to play in Sri Lanka. For us, revenues are critical. At this stage, even for our country, any incoming dollar is critical. We are all geared up to host the Asia Cup, and we all are in a positive mood,” added Ashely de Silva.

Earlier, in the Annual general meeting of the Asian Cricket Council on March 19, it was confirmed that the Asia Cup 2022 will begin from August 27 to September 11 in Sri Lanka.

Five participating nations, including India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, are already in the tournament and will be joined by one other qualifying Asian country.