Asia Cup 2021 called-off due to rising Covid cases

Asia Cup 2021

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Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) ruled out the possibility of hosting the Asia Cup in 2021 due to the prevailing health situation in the region. 

“Due to the prevailing situation, it will not be possible to play the tournament in June this year. Most of the teams have a tight schedule this year, therefore, it will most probably get pushed to a new window in 2023. The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) will formally make the announcement soon. “ SLC CEO Ashley De Silva said on Wednesday in a virtual media conference. 

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Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) had the hosting rights to schedule the T20 tournament in June 2021 in the lead up to the ICC T20 World Cup which will be held in October-November. 

Due to the multiplying cases of Covid-19, Sri Lankan Government has put a 10-day ban on international air-travel. Sri Lanka are touring Bangladesh for a limited-overs series while they will host a second-string India team for a six-match white-ball series in July. 

Notably, Pakistan Cricket Board had the hosting rights for Asia Cup 2020, which was scheduled for September 2020. Following the postponement of the tournament last year, they exchanged the hosting rights with Sri Lanka. 

With all the teams planning for their FTPs for the next two years, the continental showpiece might only find a slot after the 2023 ICC 50-over World Cup. 

Asia Cup was last played in 2018 when the UAE hosted a 50-over tournament across Dubai and Abu Dhabi. India defeated Bangladesh in the final by 3 wickets to win the continental crown.

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