The Asia Cup 2023, co-hosted by Pakistan, began with the home team facing Nepal in the opening match at the Multan cricket stadium. However, the noticeable absence of fans in the stands became a major source of embarrassment for the PCB.
Despite Pakistan batting first against Nepal after winning the toss, the Multan International Cricket Stadium’s stands are scarcely filled. The weather in Multan might contribute to this, with expectations that more fans will attend as temperatures drop in the evening. Nevertheless, the turnout wasn’t what the Pakistan Cricket Board had anticipated.
Certain Pakistani media reports claimed that tickets for the four matches in Pakistan had been sold out. However, this was clearly contradicted by the scene in Multan on the tournament’s first day.
Interestingly, even though Pakistan is the official host of the Asia Cup 2023, only four matches are scheduled to take place in the country. The remaining nine matches will be hosted by Sri Lanka. This decision stemmed from the Asian Cricket Council’s response to India’s refusal to play in Pakistan due to security concerns and the strained relationship between the two nations.
Despite initial disappointment expressed by the PCB and the Pakistani cricket community regarding the division of the tournament, the current situation seems to justify the decision. The lack of attendance to support the home team has led to social media trolls targeting Pakistan fans and the PCB for the poor turnout in such a significant tournament.
A complete empty Stadium in Multan. pic.twitter.com/OD0CUMJ4YF
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) August 30, 2023
