The upcoming Super 4 stage of the Asia Cup is facing uncertainty as heavy rainfall in Colombo has prompted discussions about relocating the matches. The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) is considering alternative venues, with Pallekele and Dambulla being among the options, due to concerns about the persistently wet weather in Sri Lanka’s capital.
Rain threat looming over Asia Cup matches
The Asia Cup is currently underway, utilizing a hybrid model with matches played in both Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Originally, Sri Lanka was selected as the second venue after India’s reluctance to cross the Line of Control (LOC). When Sri Lanka Cricket proposed hosting the event in Dambulla, a drier region in the central part of the country, it seemed like a viable option.
However, logistical and broadcasting considerations led to the selection of Pallekele and Colombo as the venues for the tournament. Unfortunately, both of these locations have experienced heavy rainfall over the past five days, leading to concerns about match disruptions.
Will ACC shift the venue for Super 4?
The recent washout of the high-profile India-Pakistan clash in Pallekele underscored the weather-related challenges faced by the tournament. With the Super 4 stage set to begin next week, the ACC is carefully evaluating its options. While the first match in Colombo is scheduled for September 9, the weather forecast doesn’t appear favorable.
Sri Lanka typically avoids hosting cricket matches in September beyond the first week due to the prevailing wet conditions. Should the Super 4 matches proceed in Colombo, they would be at the mercy of unpredictable rain patterns.
The ACC is expected to make a final decision regarding the venue for the Super 4 stage within the next 24 to 48 hours. The potential move to Pallekele, while an alternative, is not without its own risk of rain-related disruptions.
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