NEW DELHI: The 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup, initially scheduled to be held in Bangladesh, faces an uncertain future due to political unrest.
As a result, the International Cricket Council (ICC) is considering alternative venues due to safety and logistical concerns.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is determined to retain the hosting rights but the ICC is under time pressure with the tournament due to start with a warm-up match on September 27 and is actively considering the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as an alternative hosting option, Cricbuzz reported.
Several factors have contributed to the current predicament – the BCB’s request for a five-day extension to present revised plans, coupled with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) declining to host the tournament, citing the monsoon season and a busy cricket calendar, have prompted the ICC to accelerate its search for alternatives.
The UAE has emerged as the favourite with a favourable time slot, predictable weather conditions and established cricket infrastructure, and the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) is reportedly keen to host the tournament, further boosting the UAE’s bid.
Amid the mounting pressure, the Bangladesh Bank remains optimistic and stresses it is in discussions with the Bangladesh Army chief about ensuring security for the tournament. But its efforts have been clouded by the recent departure of key Bangladesh Bank officials, including President Nazmul Hassan, from the country due to political unrest.
To complicate matters further, other countries, including Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka, have also expressed interest in hosting the tournament, giving the ICC new options to consider.
The ICC is expected to take a decision by August 20 in line with a previously scheduled board meeting focused on finalising the terms of reference for the investigation into the recent Men’s T20 World Cup.
With just over 50 days to go until the start of the tournament, the ICC is faced with some crucial decisions that will have major implications for the participating teams, fans and the future of women’s cricket.
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