BCCI has declined the ICC's offer to host the upcoming Women's T20 World Cup in October in India amidst political unrest in Bangladesh. BCCI Secretary Jay Shah confirmed the decision. With India out of the running, Sri Lanka and the UAE are the remaining potential hosts. The ICC is expected to make a final decision on the matter by August 20.
BCCI refuses ICC's offer to host Women's World Cup, confirms Jay Shah
"They [ICC] have asked us if we would conduct the World Cup. I have categorically said no. We're in the monsoon and on top of that we will host the Women's ODI World Cup next year. I don't want to give any kind of signals that I want to hold consecutive World Cups," Jay Shah told Times of India.
The ICC has been considering relocating the Women's T20 World Cup due to recent violence and security concerns in Bangladesh. The country has been facing significant turmoil following anti-government protests that have resulted in numerous fatalities and the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government. An ICC official stated earlier this week that the situation in Bangladesh is under close observation, and all potential options are being evaluated.
"The ICC is closely monitoring developments in co-ordination with the Bangladesh Cricket Board [BCB], their security agencies and our own independent security consultants. Our priority is the safety and well-being of all participants," an ICC statement said."
Bangladesh Faces Challenges in Hosting Women's T20 World Cup
Bangladesh is facing significant hurdles in its bid to host the upcoming Women's T20 World Cup. Strong travel advisories issued by major cricketing nations, including England, Australia, and India, due to security concerns pose a major challenge for the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).
Compounding the issue is the ongoing political instability in the country. The recent change of government has left the BCB in a state of flux, with key officials, including the former president and sports minister, out of office. The absence of several board directors due to political affiliations has further exacerbated the situation.
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Bangladesh Cricket Team Amidst Challenges
The Bangladesh men's cricket team is currently on a tour of Pakistan for a two-match Test series. The team's preparations were disrupted by ongoing protests in Bangladesh, prompting an early departure to Pakistan. Following the Pakistan tour, the Bangladesh team is scheduled to visit India for a two-Test and three T20I series next month.
"We've not spoken to them (the Bangladesh authorities). A new government has taken charge there. They might reach out to us or else I will reach out to them. The Bangladesh series is very important to us," Shah concluded.
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