The likely new chairman of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Zaka Ashraf, has rejected his predecessor Najam Sethi’s hybrid model for the upcoming Asia Cup, which is slated to be held in Pakistan and Sri Lanka in September. Ashraf made this announcement during a press conference in the Pakistan capital on Wednesday. He stated that he disagreed with the hybrid model and that the Asia Cup should be hosted in Pakistan as decided by the Asian Cricket Council. Ashraf’s comments have also raised doubts about Pakistan’s participation in the World Cup. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to take a strong stance on the matter. Ashraf’s refusal to accept the hybrid model could result in the Asia Cup being held without Pakistan. The Asian Cricket Council board member has stated that the ACC has approved the hybrid model and there will be no change. Ashraf’s appointment as the PCB chairman is expected to be confirmed soon. The hybrid model was accepted by the ACC after India expressed its unwillingness to travel to Pakistan due to the prevailing geo-political situation. The ACC had approved that four games would be held in Pakistan, including a match between the host country and Nepal, as well as matches involving Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. However, Sethi’s sudden resignation as the chairman has led to a change in the situation. Ashraf had earlier served as the PCB chairman. During the press conference, Ashraf expressed his dislike for inconsequential games being held in Pakistan and stated that he would work towards the betterment of Pakistan. He also mentioned that the World Cup issue is yet to be sorted, which could result in a further delay in the release of the schedule. Ashraf emphasized that there are many pending issues for Pakistan, including the Asia Cup and the World Cup, and he wants to work for the betterment of the country. It is expected that Pakistan’s demand to play World Cup matches at a neutral venue will not be accepted by the BCCI or the International Cricket Council (ICC). Ashraf’s tough stance on the Asia Cup could further strain relations between Pakistan and the BCCI. The last time India and Pakistan had a bilateral series in 2012, Ashraf was serving as the PCB chairman.