According to its secretary Jay Shah, the BCCI has “categorically said no” to the ICC’s invitation to host the forthcoming Women’s T20 World Cup in October. It is recognized that on August 20, the ICC will probably make the ultimate decision. The competition, which is scheduled to take place from October 3–20, has India eliminated as the host, leaving Sri Lanka and the United Arab Emirates as potential substitutes.
“We were requested to host the T20 World Cup by them [ICC]. I have said no, period, “Shah told Times of India. “In addition to hosting the Women’s ODI World Cup next year, we are now experiencing the monsoon season. I don’t want to convey in any way that I intend to win World Cups back-to-back.”
Since Bangladesh was shaken by violence and security issues following anti-government protests that resulted in several murders and the overthrow of the Sheikh Hasina administration, the International Criminal Court (ICC) is considering a change.
Earlier this week, an ICC representative stated that all options were kept open and that the situation in Bangladesh was being watched. “The ICC is closely monitoring developments in co-ordination with the Bangladesh Cricket Board [BCB], their security agencies and our own independent security consultants,” a statement from the ICC stated. “Our priority is the safety and well-being of all participants.”
One of the main obstacles facing the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is the stringent travel advisories issued by the governments of several participating teams, including England, Australia, and India, despite the new interim government in Bangladesh’s desperate attempts to save the tournament.
Aside from security concerns, the BCB is also experiencing a problem since its president and former minister of sports, Nazmul Hassan, has been essentially removed from office since the Awami League administration fell on August 5. A number of board members who possess political ties, whether direct or indirect, have also been cut off from communication.
For a two-match series, the men’s Test squad from Bangladesh is presently touring Pakistan. After the unrest in Bangladesh hindered their training, they came early in the nation. They will also play three T20 Internationals and two Tests in India the following month.
“We’ve not spoken to them (the Bangladesh authorities),” Shah stated. “There, a new administration has assumed power. They may get in touch with us, or I will get in touch with them. For us, the Bangladesh series is crucial.”
