Cricket in Asia is set to get a major boost as the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has decided to expand its calendar with new tournaments following the success of the recent Asia Cup. During its meeting held in Doha on Saturday, the council announced plans to organise a Legend of Asia event and a league featuring associate member nations. Some of these upcoming matches will be hosted in Oman and Doha, both of which now have upgraded cricket facilities.
An ACC representative explained that the decision was influenced by the overwhelming popularity of the Asia Cup, which was held in the UAE earlier this year and drew record-breaking viewership. The meeting, chaired by ACC President Mohsin Naqvi of Pakistan, also discussed final arrangements for the Rising Stars Asia Cup, previously known as the Emerging Asia Cup, an eight-nation T20 tournament scheduled from November 14 to 23 in Doha.
The official added that the improved infrastructure in Doha made it an ideal location for hosting major events. Encouraged by the strong response to recent tournaments, the ACC Board has approved plans for both – the Legend of Asia event and a league that will give associate nations more international exposure.
President Mohsin Naqvi directed the ACC officials to create a detailed roadmap for these initiatives, emphasising the importance of promoting cricket in developing Asian countries. He said that the council will offer full support to nurture new talent and grow the game across the region.
The upcoming Rising Stars Asia Cup will open with a high-profile clash between India and Pakistan on November 14. Oman and the UAE are in the same group, while Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Hong Kong will compete in the other pool.
Officials from the ACC and the Pakistan Cricket Board are currently awaiting confirmation from India regarding player interactions during the tournament. It also remains to be seen whether, if India wins, its players will accept the trophy from Mohsin Naqvi, who is expected to be the chief guest at the final.
Will the BCCI send team India for these tournaments? What do you think?
