UAE Likely to Host Women’s T20 WC as BCB Seeks More Time

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) are now a likely host for the 2024 Women’s T20 WC originally scheduled for Bangladesh. Bangladesh’s cricket governing body currently grapples with several challenges after a sudden change in the country’s government. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (Board) is seeking more time to prepare for this tournament based on current realities. 

Why is the BCB Seeking More Time?

The BCB requires more time for planning and organization of the 2-week Women’s T20 WC. Political turmoil in Bangladesh has now seen the country’s long-time political figures flee to neighbouring nations for safety. The International Cricket Council (ICC) expresses their concern about the safety of players in such an unstable political climate.

What Will the ICC Do?

The ICC could decide to postpone the Women’s T20 WC 2024 until a time when the BCB can host it smoothly. Another option involves transferring hosting rights to other countries willing to organize the event. Reports suggest that the ICC could conclude their search for alternatives on August 20, 2024.

BCCI Rejects Proposal to Host Women’s T20 WC 2024

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah has come out to confirm that India was offered hosting rights by the ICC. The BCCI exec claimed India turned down an ICC offer to host the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024:

“They [the International Cricket Council] have asked us if we would conduct the World Cup. I have categorically said no. We’re in the monsoon and on top of that we will host the women’s ODI World Cup next year. I don’t want to give any kind of signals that I want to hold consecutive World Cups,” Mr. Shah said.

India is on schedule to host the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025. Current commitments and weather conditions seem to be major reasons behind the BCCI rejecting such offers.

Australia T20 Captain Kicks Against Playing in Bangladesh

Australia Women’s T20 skipper Alyssa Healy believes current events in Bangladesh makes playing cricket there wrong for now:

“I’d find it hard to fathom playing there at the moment, as a human being, I feel like it might be the wrong thing to do, [it would mean] taking resources away from a country that is really struggling. They’re needing everyone they can possibly get in there helping people that are dying.” Healy said. She also admitted that final decisions rest with the ICC ahead of a crucial international women’s tournament.

“There’s obviously bigger factors at play than putting a cricket tournament on in Bangladesh at the moment … but I’ll leave it to the ICC to work out,”

Proposed Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 Schedule