ICC considers relocating Women’s T20 World Cup from Bangladesh

NEW DELHI: The International Cricket Council (ICC) is evaluating the possibility of relocating this year’s Women’s T20 World Cup from Bangladesh to an alternative venue due to ongoing anti-government protests and political instability. Potential new locations being considered include the UAE, Sri Lanka, and India. This follows widespread unrest in Bangladesh, which has intensified following the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Bangladesh’s current political turmoil stems from widespread protests primarily led by students demanding the abolition of a quota system for government jobs. These protests have escalated into a broader anti-government movement. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned amidst the mounting pressure and protests in Dhaka. She arrived in India on Monday evening, but her next steps remain uncertain.
In response to the evolving situation, the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement in Bangladesh has suggested that Nobel Laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus lead an interim government to guide the country through the current challenges.
The Women’s T20 World Cup is slated to run from October 3 to 20 this year. The ICC is actively exploring alternative venues to ensure the tournament can proceed without disruption. An ICC official indicated that the governing body is closely monitoring the situation in Bangladesh in collaboration with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), local security agencies, and independent security consultants.
“The ICC is closely monitoring developments in coordination with the Bangladesh Cricket Board, their security agencies, and our own independent security consultants. Our priority is the safety and well-being of all participants,” read a statement from the ICC as quoted by ESPNCricinfo.
Governments of several participating countries, including Australia, England, and India, have issued travel advisories warning their citizens against visiting Bangladesh due to the current unrest.
While India and Sri Lanka are viable alternatives for hosting the multi-nation tournament, there are potential challenges. In Sri Lanka, October is a rainy season, which could disrupt matches. In India, there are concerns about obtaining visas for Pakistani players given the strained political relations between the two countries.
The ICC has a precedent for moving global tournaments to backup venues. In 2021, the Men’s T20 World Cup was relocated from India to the UAE and Oman due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
As the situation develops, the ICC remains committed to ensuring the safety of all participants. The organization is prepared to make necessary adjustments to the tournament’s venue if required.