BCCI Secretary Jay Shah revealed that the World Cup 2023 Schedule could be completely revamped. With security concerns likely to see a change in the IND vs PAK clash, it could cause a domino effect on other games in the tournament. In fact, Shah revealed on Thursday that at least three-member boards had requested a change in dates.
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Reports emerged on Wednesday suggesting that the high-profile India vs Pakistan is set to be rescheduled. The game was set to be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium on October 15. However, the date clashes with the 1st of the Navratri festival, meaning security arrangements could be stretched. Several security agencies in Ahmedabad suggested the BCCI change the dates, with a preponement to October 14 considered.
“A few members have requested that they have short gaps between two matches while they have a long gap of six days before other games. We are just trying to change the date and time of matches while retaining the venues. Things will be sorted out in two or three days,” Jay Shah told the media.
World Cup 2023 Schedule revamped?
However, there are already two games scheduled on October 14. New Zealand plays Bangladesh in Chennai while England faces Afghanistan in Delhi. Scheduling a third game on the same day will be a logistical nightmare for the authorities and the broadcasters. The IND vs PAK game generally generate record-breaking TRPs for broadcasters and a stand-alone spot is likely to be expected.
Jay Shah revealed on Thursday that at least three other member boards had requested changes in the schedule. It is however unclear whether Pakistan Cricket Board were amongst those. PCB had made known their misgivings regarding the WC 2023 Schedule, requesting a change in the draft. The BCCI and ICC however paid no heed to those demands.
The World Cup is a little over two months away. Any change in the schedule is likely to affect the tourism sector with a string of cancellations and changes in itinerary. The tournament kicks off on October 5, with the final in Ahmedabad on November 19.
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