 "A protester throws a rubber tire on fire during a protest against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her government in Dhaka. AP")
The political unrest in Bangladesh has cast a long shadow over the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup, scheduled for October. The ICC is grappling with the increasing likelihood of having to relocate the tournament from troubled Bangladesh.
With widespread protests, curfews, and internet shutdowns gripping the country, concerns over player and spectator safety have reached a critical level.
India have emerged as a potential alternative host, given the proximity and capacity to accommodate the event. Other options into consideration are UAE and Sri Lanka.
“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,” a spokesperson for ICC was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz.
On Monday (August 5), Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country after demonstrations had turned violent and protesters descended upon her official residence.
In the aftermath, Bangladesh’s army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said in a national address that an interim government would run the country and appealed for calm.
He added that there would be discussions with the president to form the interim government.
As per the report, ICC is maintaining close contact with the Bangladesh Cricket Board and its own security experts to assess the situation. A final decision is expected within the next week.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsWhile there was initial optimism about conditions improving in time for the tournament, the recent deterioration has forced the governing body to explore contingency plans.
“All places with favourable weather will be in the mix if it becomes clear that we can’t play in Bangladesh. That may or may not be the case,” said an ICC member as per the report.
The potential shift of the tournament would require significant logistical adjustments, including venue changes, travel arrangements, and broadcast schedules. The ICC will undoubtedly face a complex task in ensuring a smooth transition if a relocation becomes necessary.
The Women’s T20 World, featuring 10 teams and 23 matches over 18 days, is due to be played at two venues in Bangladesh, the Shere Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka and the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium in Sylhet from October 3 to 20.
BCB reschedule ‘A’ team’s tour to Pakistan
BCB announced that they are rescheduling their upcoming ‘A’ team’s tour of Pakistan by two days due to the political crisis.
The Bangladesh ‘A’ Team were scheduled to leave for Pakistan on Tuesday (August 6) evening to play two four-day and three one day matches against Pakistan ‘A’.
“The Bangladesh A Team’s departure for Pakistan has been delayed by at least 48 hours due to unavailable circumstances,” BCB said in a statement on Tuesday.
“The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is in constant communication with Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) regarding the A Team’s tour,” it added.
As per reports BCB president Nazmul Hasan, who is an MP from Awami League and also the Sports Minister, has left the country.