Women’s T20 World Cup Moved from Bangladesh to UAE
In a significant change, the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup has been relocated from Bangladesh to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) due to ongoing civil unrest in the original host nation. This decision by the International Cricket Council (ICC) underscores the challenging situation in Bangladesh, where political instability has made it impossible to safely host the tournament.
UAE Steps In as New Host
The ICC announced that the tournament will now be held across two iconic venues in the UAE—Dubai and Sharjah—from 3 to 20 October. This swift relocation highlights the UAE’s capability and readiness to step in during challenging circumstances. As a result, the focus now shifts to these cricketing hubs, which are no strangers to hosting international events.
Impact of Civil Unrest in Bangladesh
The turmoil in Bangladesh has been severe, with former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigning and fleeing to India amid violent anti-government protests. Over 400 people tragically lost their lives during the unrest, which began as student-led demonstrations against civil service job quotas. The gravity of the situation led to travel advisories from multiple governments, making it untenable for the event to continue as planned in Bangladesh.
ICC Chief Executive Geoff Allardice remarked, “It is a shame not to be hosting the Women’s T20 World Cup in Bangladesh as we know the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) would have staged a memorable event.” Despite the best efforts of the BCB to salvage the situation, the safety of the teams had to take precedence.
Future of Bangladesh Hosting Rights
Interestingly, the BCB will retain hosting rights for a future ICC event, demonstrating the ICC’s ongoing commitment to Bangladesh. Allardice confirmed, “We look forward to taking an ICC global event to Bangladesh,” reflecting the governing body’s long-term vision for the sport in the region.
While the tournament’s move is a disappointment for Bangladesh cricket fans, the UAE’s role as the new host promises an exciting and well-organised Women’s T20 World Cup. The shift of location ensures that the competition can proceed without disruption, maintaining the integrity and excitement of this premier event in women’s cricket.
