'And they wanted to host the entire Asia Cup': Fans roast Pakistan over empty stands

The commencement of the Asia Cup 2023 was marked by the inaugural match between Pakistan and Nepal, hosted at the Multan Cricket Stadium. Pakistan's captain Babar Azam opted to bat first after winning the toss. Despite facing the early setback of losing two wickets, a pivotal partnership between Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan proved to be a rescuing force for the team, thwarting the threat of a potential collapse. However, the partnership was cut short as Rizwan fell victim to a run-out executed by Dipendra Singh Airee in the 25th over. The match had already witnessed a previous run-out when Nepal's skipper Rohit Paudel executed an impressive throw to dismiss Imam-ul-Haq.

3 things you need to know

• Pakistan encountered Nepal in an ODI match for the very first time
• Despite the early setback, Pakistan managed to amass a commendable total of 342/6
• Nepal are struggling to chase down the target as they are already 5 wickets down

Also Read: Asia Cup 2023: Nepal Captain Shuts Pakistan Crowd With Brilliant Run Out Of Imam-ul-Haq

Cricket fans troll PCB for empty Multan Stadium

The home team initiated proceedings against Nepal on Wednesday, yet the absence of fans at the Multan Cricket Stadium has proven to be a significant source of embarrassment for the PCB. The prevailing weather conditions in Multan might play a role in this situation, with the possibility of fan numbers increasing as temperatures lower towards the evening. Nevertheless, the current scenario undoubtedly deviates from the expectations of the Pakistan Cricket Board.

The virtual realm of social media has already witnessed netizens trolling Pakistan fans and the PCB for the noticeable lack of attendance, even in a prestigious event like the Asia Cup.

Unhappy to see the Multan stadium 🏟️ relatively empty during the Asia Cup opening ceremony. Let's hope the enthusiasm picks up as the matches unfold! 🏏🎉 #AsiaCup2023 #CricketFever" pic.twitter.com/fJIIjJNB2d

— Zaheer Ahmad (@ZaheerAhmad0786) August 30, 2023

A completely empty stadium in Multan. ODI Cricket is dying.

We need more of India-Pakistan games or multination tournaments. pic.twitter.com/LbzRuCh3ar

— Sukirt Johari (@sukirtjohari) August 30, 2023

A Complete Empty Stadium In Multan.#PAKvNEP #AsiaCup23 pic.twitter.com/kyWPGntBHR

— Deepak Jangid (@itsDeepakJangid) August 30, 2023

Complete Multan stadium are empty,
no crowd this is real conduction of cricket in Pak #AsiaCup2023 pic.twitter.com/65xBWNJW2d

— Vikash Singh 🇮🇳 (@Vikashkumar277) August 30, 2023

Worth noting that Pakistan holds the official hosting status for the Asia Cup 2023. However, the tournament's schedule includes only four matches to be held in the country, while the remaining nine are scheduled to take place in Sri Lanka. This decision emerged following India's refusal to travel to Pakistan due to security concerns and the complex diplomatic relationship between the two neighboring nations.

Also Read: It Tests Your Character And Personality: Hardik Pandya Ahead Of Indo-Pak Clash In Asia Cup

Although the PCB and Pakistani cricket community expressed dissatisfaction with the Asian Cricket Council's choice to divide the tournament, the current circumstances seem to validate the decision. The minimal presence of fans rallying for the home team underscores the situation.

Image: Hotstar