The International Cricket Council (ICC) has shortlisted the UAE, India, and Sri Lanka as potential backup venues for the Women’s T20 World Cup, initially slated to take place in Bangladesh later this year.
This contingency plan follows recent political upheaval in Bangladesh considering the country has been gripped by significant anti-government protests, leading to multiple casualties and the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has reportedly sought refuge in India.
Amidst the chaos, General Waker-Uz-Zaman has taken charge, forming an interim government. Protesters have also targeted properties of Awami League members, including the home of former Bangladesh cricket captain Mashrafe Mortaza.
The Women’s T20 World Cup, featuring ten teams, is scheduled for October 3-20. Given the unstable situation in Bangladesh, the ICC is exploring alternative venues.
In response to the unrest, Australia, England, and India have issued travel advisories against visiting Bangladesh while the ICC is assessing the feasibility of relocating the tournament, noting that India and Sri Lanka can host multi-nation events on short notice.
However, potential obstacles include Sri Lanka’s rainy season in October and visa issues for the Pakistan team if the event moves to India.
Additionally, the BCB has delayed the Bangladesh ‘A’ team’s departure to Pakistan by 48 hours due to unforeseen circumstances, including a temporary closure of Dhaka airport.
Despite these disruptions, the Bangladesh senior team’s departure for Pakistan on August 17 remains on track for the two-match Test series.
The PCB has proposed that the Bangladesh Test team arrive early to practice in Rawalpindi ahead of the Test series starting on August 21, though the BCB has not yet responded.
ICC last relocated a global tournament in 2021, when the men’s T20 World Cup was moved from India to the UAE and Oman due to the pandemic.