The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is facing a race against time to ensure the Women’s T20 World Cup goes ahead as planned in October, with the country in the grip of unprecedented civil unrest. The resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and subsequent mass protests have plunged the nation into chaos, prompting the International Cricket Council (ICC) to place the tournament under close observation.
Originally scheduled to be hosted across Dhaka and Sylhet, the World Cup is now in serious doubt. The ICC has already identified potential alternative venues in the UAE, India, and Sri Lanka, with a final decision imminent.
A spokesperson for the governing body confirmed that the situation in Bangladesh is being monitored closely, with the safety of players and officials paramount. “We are working tirelessly with the BCB and local authorities to assess the situation,” they said. “The well-being of everyone involved is our top priority.”
Adding to the BCB’s woes, Australia, England, and India – three of the tournament’s high-profile participants – have issued travel advisories to their citizens, warning of the deteriorating security situation.
While India and Sri Lanka have experience hosting multi-nation events at short notice, logistical challenges remain. Sri Lanka’s monsoon season could disrupt play, while visa restrictions between India and Pakistan could complicate matters.
The ICC was forced to relocate the 2021 Men’s T20 World Cup from India to the UAE due to the Covid-19 pandemic. With Bangladesh on the brink of political and social upheaval, the women’s tournament could be the next major sporting event to be uprooted.
