Multan, 30 Aug, 2023 (GNP: Commencing today, the battle for the Asian championship embarks with the inaugural match of the continental tournament between Pakistan and Nepal. The opening ceremony at the Multan Cricket Stadium featured a dynamic performance by the duo of famous singers, Aima Baig and Trishala Gurung, as reported by the sources.
Multan, known as the City of Saints, played host to the kickoff match of Asia Cup 2023, expecting a substantial turnout of enthusiastic spectators at the stadium.
“Experience live fireworks and captivating performances by Aima Baig and Nepal’s Trishala Gurung, followed by the commencement of the opening match between Pakistan and Nepal,” the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) stated in a release shared on X (formerly Twitter).
Asia Cup opening ceremony: Aima Baig, Nepalese singer Trishala Gurung to set stage on fire https://t.co/yaQbkdzdQB pic.twitter.com/ZdlBam2KNc
— Akhbarpoint (@akhbarpoint) August 30, 2023
While Aima Baig is recognized for her renditions of Pakistan Super League (PSL) anthems, Trishala Gurung is a new entrant to the Pakistani audience.
The 2023 edition of this multi-nation tournament is jointly hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka, scheduled from August 30 to September 17.
Also Read: Pakistan, Sri Lanka to co-host Asia Cup 2023
It’s noteworthy that not all matches of the Asia Cup will be held in Pakistan, as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) declined to send their team due to security apprehensions.
Group A comprises Pakistan, Nepal, and India, whereas Group B includes Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Sri Lanka. While Pakistan will host four matches, Sri Lanka will host nine, culminating with the final.
This edition of the Asia Cup 2023 adopts the 50-over format, offering teams valuable preparation ahead of the World Cup in India later this year. The T20 and ODI formats have been alternating since 2016. The reigning champions of the 50-over Asia Cup are India, with the previous edition being held in 2018.
