Asia Cup matches may be moved from Colombo to Hambantota

Abhishek

Bad weather forecast in the Sri Lankan capital could force venue change for four Super Four games and the final
The upcoming Asia Cup matches, originally slated for Colombo, are now under consideration for relocation to Hambantota, as the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) strives to mitigate the risk of rain disruptions. Hambantota, known for its lower rainfall during September compared to Colombo and Pallekele, is emerging as a favorable alternative venue.

However, shifting the matches to this venue on Sri Lanka's southern coast presents logistical challenges. Situated amidst a jungle near the small town of Sooriyawewa, Hambantota lacks proximity to urban centers, with high-quality hotels requiring a minimum 45-minute drive. Given the late decision to potentially relocate, there is uncertainty regarding the availability of sufficient accommodations for the four participating teams, support staff, match officials, commentators, and the broadcast crew.

An official from Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) informed ESPNcricinfo that logistical concerns represent the sole impediment to moving the latter part of the tournament to Hambantota. According to sources from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Hambantota has received approval as the alternative venue.

Although Colombo has previously hosted successful limited-overs matches in September, recent heavy rainfall in the city, accompanied by flooding in the northern areas near the Khettarama stadium, has raised concerns among broadcasters and tournament organizers. Rain disruptions also affected the India-Nepal fixture in Pallekele and led to the washout of the Pakistan vs. India match in Pallekele.

SLC officials express a preference for keeping the matches in Colombo to avoid logistical complications. However, if relocation becomes inevitable, they lean towards Hambantota over Dambulla, despite Dambulla being one of the driest venues in the country. SLC officials cite insufficient floodlights as the reason for not considering Dambulla, even though the venue successfully hosted a day/night ODI as recently as 2018.
The impacted Super Four matches are originally scheduled for September 9, 10, 12, and 14, with the final slated for September 15. Hambantota most recently hosted two ODIs between Pakistan and Afghanistan on August 22 and 24, making it a viable alternative venue for the Asia Cup matches.