The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) rejected the proposal given by the International Cricket Council (ICC) to host the Women's T20 World Cup. The ICC is said to take a final call on August 20. The Women's T20 World Cup is to be played in Bangladesh from 3rd to 20th October.
"They [ICC] 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.” ," Jay Shah said.
ICC got into tricky situation
Bangladesh is currently facing violence and security challenges due to the anti-government student movement. This is the reason why ICC is considering hosting someone else instead of Bangladesh. Hundreds of people have died in the ongoing violence in Bangladesh and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has also had to leave the country.
In such a situation, India was offered hosting. Now after India's withdrawal, Sri Lanka and UAE are the only other options left. Recently Sri Lanka hosted the Women's Asia Cup. This tournament was considered part of the preparation for the Women's T20 World Cup.
'Our priority is the safety'
ICC is concerned about the ongoing violence in Bangladesh. An ICC official had said, "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."
Bangladesh is trying to save the tournament
The new interim government in Bangladesh is finally trying to save the tournament. One of the biggest hurdles for the BCB is the travel advisory issued by the government of many participating teams, including England, Australia, and India.
Apart from security, there is also an issue that Bangladesh Cricket Board President and former Sports Minister Nazmul Hassan has been missing since August 5, after the fall of the government. Many board directors, who have political connections, are also not in touch.
'Bangladesh series is very important to us'
Bangladesh Team is now in Pakistan for two Tests before flying to India for two Tests and three T20Is, starting September 19 in Chennai. Commenting on Team India's preparation for the first series of the home season, Shah said this series remains crucial for the Indian Team.
"We've not spoken to them (the Bangladesh authorities). A new government has taken charge there. They might reach out to us or else I will reach out to them. The Bangladesh series is very important to us." Shah said.