Asia Cup 2023 Final Likely to Relocate to Pallekele Amid Weather Concerns

In a significant development, the much-anticipated final of the 2023 Asia Cup is set to change its venue due to unfavourable weather conditions in Colombo. The final, which was originally scheduled to take place at the R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo, is now likely to move to the Pallekele International Stadium in Kandy, as per various media reports. The decision to relocate the final stems from concerns about the unpredictable weather that is expected in the capital city on September 17.

Pallekele: A Reliable Alternative

Pallekele International Stadium in Kandy has already played a crucial role in this year’s Asia Cup by hosting three group-stage matches. One of the most high-stakes encounters of the tournament, the clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan, took place at this venue on September 2. Unfortunately, this thrilling contest was marred by rain, which led to the match being abandoned after India had posted a competitive total of 266 runs in their first innings. 

However, it’s worth noting that the first game held at Pallekele, featuring Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, proceeded without any disruptions. This successful match demonstrated the stadium’s reliability as a suitable venue for cricketing events. 

India’s Experience with Rain 

India’s journey in the Asia Cup 2023 has been somewhat affected by rain. Their match against Nepal was also marred by inclement weather, but the Men in Blue managed to secure a comprehensive victory by ten wickets using the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method. Additionally, the Super Four stage clash between India and Pakistan was also interrupted by rain, leading to the match being rescheduled to the reserve day. 

Considering the unpredictable weather conditions in Colombo, the decision to move the final to Pallekele International Stadium in Kandy seems prudent. The organizers aim to ensure that the much-anticipated clash between the top teams in the tournament takes place without any disruptions caused by rain. Pallekele’s track record of successfully hosting matches even in these rainy times makes it a suitable alternative venue for the final. 

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