The International Cricket Council (ICC) is keeping a watchful eye on the situation in Bangladesh as it ponders the future of the Women’s T20 World Cup.
A previously imposed deadline of August 15th for selecting a host nation has been extended due to the ongoing unrest in the region, according to a Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) insider.
The BCB has pleaded with the ICC for extra time to assess the viability of hosting the tournament and has been granted their wish. A senior figure at the board told The Daily Star that while the ICC had initially set a firm deadline, they are now engaged in ongoing dialogue to find a swift resolution.
The Bangladesh Army has offered assurances of providing top-tier security for the World Cup, addressing one of the major stumbling blocks to the tournament going ahead as planned. However, the BCB is facing a host of challenges, including the absence of several board directors and the imposition of travel restrictions by multiple countries.
BCB CEO Nizamuddin Chowdhury confirmed that discussions with the ICC are ongoing. While the August 15th deadline has passed, he expressed optimism about the situation and the continued positive dialogue between the two parties.
As the uncertainty surrounding the tournament persists, reports have emerged that the ICC is exploring alternative venues, with the UAE, India, and Sri Lanka being considered as potential hosts should Bangladesh be unable to stage the event. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has poured cold water on speculation that it could step in, with secretary Jay Shah firmly rejecting the possibility.
