Amid the speculations over the hosting of the upcoming Asia Cup, an Asian Cricket Council (ACC) source on Tuesday (May 31) said that Sri Lanka is keen to stage the multi-nation tournament and is making arrangements for it.

Asia Cup 2022, in a T20 format, was announced to be held in Sri Lanka between August 27 and September 11. Sri Lanka was declared host for the marquee event after an AGM was held between the member countries in March.

However, the island nation is dealing with a major economic crisis and questions are being raised if it could still host the tournament.

"Sri Lanka Cricket officials and ACC President met on sidelines of IPL final in Hyderabad and during this meeting, officials told that they want to host the Asia Cup and are making arrangements for it. Sri Lanka Cricket Board is keen to host the event and they made their stand clear during the meeting," said the source to ANI.

Earlier, ACC President Jay Shah had told the same news agency that he will be meeting SLC officials during the IPL finals.

The source further said that a final decision is yet to be taken in regard to the hosting rights. Meanwhile, other options like UAE and Bangladesh are also being considered in case Sri Lanka fails to host the competition.

"It could also start before its original date, hoping that a decision will be made in a day or two and ACC will make an official announcement," added the source.

Sri Lanka is batting its worst financial turmoil as citizens are facing severe shortages of food, fuel, and other essentials. The country of 22 million people has also experienced weeks of power blackouts in the wake of the economic and political crisis.

(With ANI inputs)