ICC Looks Beyond Sri Lanka In T20 World Cup Venue Debate
The ICC is evaluating two venues in Bangladesh as standby options for the T20 World Cup. This comes amid growing uncertainty over which country will ultimately host the tournament. Sri Lanka remained the frontrunner for some time. However, recent developments suggest the ICC is now exploring other options. Bangladesh has emerged as a strong contender, he added.The venue-related situation has gathered momentum due to concerns over logistics, weather conditions, political stability, and the preparedness of the original hosts. With time running out, broadcasters, sponsors, and teams are demanding clarity. As a result, the ICC is keen to finalise venues that can ensure a smooth and disruption-free tournament.
Why Sri Lanka Is No Longer The Preferred Option
Sri Lanka was an early contender in the running due to a good cricketing infrastructure and experience in staging successful ICC events. However, according to those in the know, issues in the existing matches calendar, monsoon conditions, and logistical matters have weakened its chances.
The ICC is particularly cautious about weather interruptions, which is a concern for a tournament like T20, given its shorter format and the possibility of rain affecting matches. However, due to these factors, it has kept its options open and is casting a broader net rather than just banking on Sri Lanka.
Bangladesh Enters The Picture With Two Key Venues
Recent reports are coming in that the ICC is inclined to name two known Bangladesh venues as their reserve choices. Their two most likely picks are Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium of Dhaka and Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium of Chattogram.
The arenas have managed to acquire a good record for the hosting of international fixtures, including ICC events and big bilateral series. The Sher-e-Bangla Stadium stands out for its up-to-date facilities, dependable pitch management, and strong crowd support, which together make it a trustworthy stage for high-profile matches.
Chattogram brings well-balanced playing conditions and a track record of hosting games across formats. Its coastal setting also tends to offer relatively stable weather windows during the tournament period, compared with some other regions.
What Works In Bangladesh’s Favour
Bangladesh’s growing reputation as a capable host nation plays a major role in the ICC’s consideration. Over the years, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has invested heavily in infrastructure, security, and event management. The country has successfully hosted Asia Cups, ICC qualifiers, and multiple international tours without major disruptions.
Another key factor is fan engagement. Cricket enjoys massive popularity in Bangladesh, ensuring packed stadiums and vibrant atmospheres—elements that add significant value to a global tournament like the T20 World Cup. Additionally, travel logistics between venues are manageable, which is crucial for teams operating on tight schedules.
Challenges That Still Remain
However, there are some drawbacks for Bangladesh as well. Weather is very unpredictable, and one will have to be cautious of the humidity and some rains that can occur. However, ICC administrators are confident that these factors can be easily mitigated.
The security and accommodation required for a number of teams, officials, and members of the press are being evaluated. Preliminary assessment indicates that, with effective coordination between the local authorities and the BCB, such challenges can be easily handled.
ICC’s Final Call Awaited
For the time being, there has not been any official confirmation, but ICC is all set to make a final decision shortly so that it ends all speculations. Emerging Bangladesh to host matches or even a considerable chunk of the tournament points toward ICC’s belief in upcoming cricketing nations marching into the world arena.
If approved, this would mark yet another milestone for Bangladeshi cricket and evidence the country’s growing importance to international cricket.
