NEW DELHI: The 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup, originally slated to be hosted by Bangladesh, faces an uncertain future amid political unrest.
As a result, the International Cricket Council (ICC) is exploring alternative venues due to security and logistical concerns.
While the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) remains determined to retain hosting rights, the ICC, facing time constraints with the tournament scheduled to commence on September 27th with the warm-up games, is actively considering the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as a potential replacement, according to a report from Cricbuzz.
Several factors contribute to the current predicament. The BCB’s request for a five-day extension to present a revised hosting plan, coupled with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) declining to step in as host due to monsoon season and a packed cricketing calendar, has accelerated the ICC’s search for alternatives.
The UAE, with its favourable time zone, predictable weather conditions, and established cricketing infrastructure, has emerged as a frontrunner. The Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) is reportedly enthusiastic about hosting the tournament, further bolstering the UAE’s candidacy.
Despite the mounting pressure, the BCB remains optimistic, highlighting ongoing discussions with Bangladesh’s Army Chief regarding security assurances for the tournament. However, the recent exodus of key BCB officials, including President Nazmul Hassan, due to political unrest casts a shadow over their efforts.
Adding to the complexity, other nations, including Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka, have expressed interest in hosting the tournament, presenting the ICC with additional options to consider.
The ICC is expected to reach a decision by August 20th, coinciding with a pre-scheduled board meeting primarily focused on finalizing the terms of reference for an inquiry into the recent Men’s T20 World Cup.
With just over 50 days remaining before the tournament’s start, the ICC faces a critical decision that will significantly impact the participating teams, fans, and the future of women’s cricket.
As a result, the International Cricket Council (ICC) is exploring alternative venues due to security and logistical concerns.
While the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) remains determined to retain hosting rights, the ICC, facing time constraints with the tournament scheduled to commence on September 27th with the warm-up games, is actively considering the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as a potential replacement, according to a report from Cricbuzz.
Several factors contribute to the current predicament. The BCB’s request for a five-day extension to present a revised hosting plan, coupled with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) declining to step in as host due to monsoon season and a packed cricketing calendar, has accelerated the ICC’s search for alternatives.
The UAE, with its favourable time zone, predictable weather conditions, and established cricketing infrastructure, has emerged as a frontrunner. The Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) is reportedly enthusiastic about hosting the tournament, further bolstering the UAE’s candidacy.
Despite the mounting pressure, the BCB remains optimistic, highlighting ongoing discussions with Bangladesh’s Army Chief regarding security assurances for the tournament. However, the recent exodus of key BCB officials, including President Nazmul Hassan, due to political unrest casts a shadow over their efforts.
Adding to the complexity, other nations, including Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka, have expressed interest in hosting the tournament, presenting the ICC with additional options to consider.
The ICC is expected to reach a decision by August 20th, coinciding with a pre-scheduled board meeting primarily focused on finalizing the terms of reference for an inquiry into the recent Men’s T20 World Cup.
With just over 50 days remaining before the tournament’s start, the ICC faces a critical decision that will significantly impact the participating teams, fans, and the future of women’s cricket.
