Dominica, one of the seven countries in the Caribbean shortlisted to host the T20 World Cup 2024, has pulled out of hosting the mega event. The Dominica government in a statement on November 30 said that they will not be able to ready the stadium before their T20 World Cup matches.
According to the Dominica government's statement, Windsor Park was expected to host one group stage match followed by two Super 8 clashes.
"Several tangible actions were taken both at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium and at the Benjamin's Park including the commencement of upgrading and enhancement of the practice and match venues, various assessments and the creation of additional pitches where necessary," the Dominica government's statement read.
"However, the implementation timelines submitted by the various contractors revealed that it would not be possible to complete these works within the stipulated timeframe before the commencement of the tournament. As a result, a decision was taken not to host any of the matches in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 as it would not be prudent for the Government of Dominica to commit to hosting these games.
"In light of Dominica's sterling reputation in hosting international cricket, this decision is considered to be in the best interest of all. The Government of Dominica thanks Cricket West Indies (CWI) for its partnership over the years and looks forward to continued collaboration in the future. The Government of Dominica extends best wishes to the organisers for a successful tournament in June 2024."
So far, Dominica has hosted a total of eight T20Is. The last T20I at the venue was played in July 2022 between West Indies and Bangladesh.
The other six Caribbean venues are - Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Guyana, St Lucia, Trinidad & Tobago, and St Vincent & The Grenadines. The three cities in the USA that will be hosting the World Cup are Texas, Florida, and New York.
On November 30, the 20 teams which will compete for the World Cup trophy were finalised as well. Uganda will play the T20 World Cup for the first time.
Here is the list of 20 teams –
Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, Canada, England, India, Ireland, Namibia, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Oman, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea (PNG), Scotland, South Africa, Sri Lanka, West Indies, Uganda, United States of America (USA).
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