The ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2024 is facing uncertainty due to the escalating political tension in Bangladesh. The Women's T20 World Cup, originally scheduled to be held in the country, is now likely to be moved to a different location.
Women's T20 World Cup in Jeopardy
What began as a peaceful student protest demanding job quotas quickly escalated into a widespread anti-government movement. Hundreds of thousands of citizens took to the streets, leading to violent clashes with the police. The unrest has resulted in the tragic loss of over 300 lives, creating a volatile situation across the nation.
ALSO READ: Reigning champion Neeraj Chopra qualifies for final with second-best throw of his career
Political Turmoil in Bangladesh Threatens Women's T20 World Cup
Bangladesh has been plunged into political chaos following the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina after 15 years in power. The ensuing violence and instability have raised serious concerns about the feasibility of hosting the Women's T20 World Cup in October 2024. The Bangladesh military has assumed control of the country as protests continue to grip the nation. With the situation rapidly deteriorating, the ICC is facing a daunting task in determining whether to proceed with the tournament as planned or relocate it to a different country.
"The ICC is closely monitoring developments in coordination 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," said an ICC spokesperson.
ALSO READ: Paris Olympics 2024: Neeraj Chopra to clinch back-to-back gold? these instances give India big hope
India Emerges as Frontrunner to Host Women's T20 World Cup
Amidst the growing uncertainty surrounding the hosting of the Women's T20 World Cup in Bangladesh, India has emerged as a strong contender to take over the tournament. A report in CricketNext suggests that Mumbai is the preferred choice for the event, with Wankhede Stadium and DY Patil Stadium as potential venues. The two stadiums successfully hosted the Women's Premier League last year, making them ideal candidates for the prestigious international tournament.
"Two venues are all that is required. Say an arrangement like Wankhede and DY Patil or Delhi and Mohali. Two venues not very far from each other will make it easy to host the tournament. If the tournament does move out, which is very likely, Wankhede and DY Patil will make an ideal combination as the turnout at these venues during Women’s Premier League was very good," a source told the news outlet.
ICC to Make Final Decision on Women's T20 World Cup venue
The International Cricket Council (ICC) is expected to announce the final decision regarding the venue for the Women's T20 World Cup by the end of next week. Given the ongoing turmoil in Bangladesh, it is highly unlikely that the tournament will proceed as planned in the country. Even if the situation in Bangladesh were to stabilise in the coming days, the logistical challenges and security concerns would be insurmountable for the organizers to guarantee a successful event.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
Former Bangladesh captain-turned-politician's house set ablaze by protestors in country
