Explained: Why Dominica has pulled out from hosting 2024 T20 World Cup matches?
Dominica has pulled out of hosting the 2024 T20 World Cup matches. The island nation is one of seven countries in the Caribbean shortlisted to host the T20 World Cup which will also be played in the USA from 4-30 June next year. Windsor Park in Dominica was shortlisted to host one group match and two Super Eight games, but these games will now have to be shifted to other venues.
Why Dominica will not host 2024 T20 World Cup matches?
The decision was taken by the Dominica government on Thursday as it became clear that it will be unable to meet the deadline for completing the construction work of their stadiums.
“Several tangible actions were taken both at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium and at the Benjamin’s Park including the commencement of upgrading and enhancement of the practice and match venues, various assessments and the creation of additional pitches where necessary,” Dominica government’s statement read.
“However, the implementation timelines submitted by the various contractors revealed that it would not be possible to complete these works within the stipulated timeframe before the commencement of the tournament. As a result, a decision was taken not to host any of the matches in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 as it would not be prudent for the Government of Dominica to commit to hosting these games.
“In light of Dominica’s sterling reputation in hosting international cricket, this decision is considered to be in the best interest of all. The Government of Dominica thanks Cricket West Indies (CWI) for its partnership over the years and looks forward to continued collaboration in the future. The Government of Dominica extends best wishes to the organisers for a successful tournament in June 2024.”
ICC has not yet responded to the Dominica government’s decision.
The 2024 T20 World Cup tournament director Fawwaz Baksh said: “When hosting tournaments of this scale, it is inevitable that circumstances will arise which will require the organisers to adapt and alter plans. This is something that happens in any event of this nature, and why we have contingency plans for all functional areas for the hosting of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.”
The six other countries in the West Indies hosting the T20 World Cup are Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Guyana, Saint Lucia, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, and Trinidad & Tobago.
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