The ICC has shortlisted the UAE, India, and Sri Lanka as potential backup venues for the Women’s T20 World Cup, originally scheduled to be held in Bangladesh later this year. This decision comes in response to recent political turmoil in Bangladesh.
Bangladesh has been experiencing significant anti-government protests, resulting in several deaths and the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has fled to India. Amid the unrest, General Waker-Uz-Zaman has assumed control to establish an interim government. Protestors have also targeted properties of members of the Awami League, including the residence of former Bangladesh cricket captain Mashrafe Mortaza.
The ten-team Women’s T20 World Cup is set to take place from October 3-20. However, the ICC is preparing for possible venue changes due to the unstable situation in Bangladesh. An ICC official stated, “The ICC is closely monitoring developments in co-ordination with the Bangladesh Cricket Board [BCB], their security agencies and our own independent security consultants,” an ICC statement said. “Our priority is the safety and well-being of all participants.”
In light of Monday’s events, Australia, England, and India have issued travel advisories against visiting Bangladesh. The ICC has begun evaluating alternative venues, considering that India and Sri Lanka can host multi-nation tournaments on short notice. However, potential issues include October’s rainy season in Sri Lanka and visa challenges for the Pakistan team if the tournament moves to India.
Additionally, the BCB has postponed the Bangladesh ‘A’ team’s departure to Pakistan by 48 hours due to unforeseen circumstances. The Dhaka airport was temporarily closed, delaying the team’s flight. The BCB and PCB are working together on a revised tour itinerary, and further details will follow.
Despite these disruptions, the Bangladesh senior team’s departure for Pakistan, scheduled for August 17, remains unchanged. The PCB has suggested that the Bangladesh Test team arrive early to practice in Rawalpindi before the Test series starting on August 21, though the BCB has yet to respond.
