India won’t be participating in Asia Cup - Ravi Ashwin makes his stance public


image-ldt44llzRavi Ashwin in practice nets (Twitter)

The radar is currently on India's upcoming clash against Australia at home in the much-anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2023. However, the heat is still on whether Pakistan will host the Asia Cup or not.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) wants to host the multination tournament in their country, helping it return to the country after 15 years or so. However, other members of the Asian Cricket Council, especially the BCCI, would want their respective government's permission to visit Pakistan for the Asia Cup.

The ACC or BCCI has released no official statement, but it is almost transparent that the Indian team won't be touring Pakistan. As a result, PCB will have to take the showpiece tournament out of their nation.

While commentating on the ongoing battle between the two neighbouring boards, Indian Test veteran Ravichandran Ashwin stated that the Men in Blue would certainly not travel to Pakistan.

"Asia Cup (2023) was supposed to take place in Pakistan; however, India has made it clear that if Pakistan hosts it, then they won’t be participating (in the Asia Cup). If you want us to participate then change the venue," Ashwin mentioned on his Youtube channel.


"We have seen this happen many times. When we say that we won’t go to their place, they will that they will also not come to our place. Similarly, Pakistan has said that they will also not come to the World Cup. But however, I think it is not possible," the Indian cricketer added. 


"The final call might be the Asia Cup moving to Sri Lanka. This (Asia Cup) is an important lead-up to the 50-over World Cup. Many tournaments have taken place in Dubai. I will also be pleased if it is moved to Sri Lanka," he concluded.

Ashwin is one of many cricketers publicly speaking about his take on this ongoing spat. 

Legendary former Pakistan batter and captain Javed Miandad has also come out and criticised the Indian board, headed by Roger Binny and Jay Shah, after the media speculations hinting at BCCI's take.  

"India can go to hell if they don’t want to come to Pakistan to play cricket. I’ve always backed Pakistan. And you know that I don’t leave spare India whenever an issue arises. But the thing is we need to look at our part. And we should fight for it," Miandad commented.

Meanwhile, PCB is still keen on hosting the tournament in Pakistan, with or without all the ACC members.


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