The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has declined the offer to host the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. This significant decision was revealed by Jay Shah, the Secretary of the BCCI, during an interaction at the Times Group’s Mumbai office. Shah shared that the International Cricket Council (ICC) had approached India for hosting the prestigious event, but the BCCI decided against it.
“They (ICC) have asked us if we would conduct the World Cup. I have categorically said no,” Shah stated. He further explained the rationale behind the decision, underscoring the ongoing monsoon season in India and the BCCI’s existing commitments, particularly the upcoming Women’s ODI World Cup scheduled for next year. Shah emphasized that hosting two consecutive World Cups would send the wrong message.
This decision comes amid disturbances in Bangladesh, which had led to speculations about relocating the World Cup to India. The cricketing fraternity had raised questions about India stepping in as a potential host for the ICC event. However, Shah made it clear that the focus remains on the upcoming home series against Bangladesh, which the BCCI considers highly important.
The home series against Bangladesh will see India playing two Tests and three T20Is, starting from September 19. Shah hinted at future communications with the Bangladesh authorities, mentioning, “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.”
In addition to the aforementioned series, the BCCI is also gearing up to inaugurate the High Performance Centre in Bengaluru next month, one of Shah’s major projects since taking charge as the Secretary in October 2019. The pandemic had delayed progress, but with renewed efforts in his second term starting in 2022, Shah has driven the project to near completion. The facility holds the promise of being state-of-the-art, featuring three grounds and 100 pitches, including 45 indoor turfs designed to replicate various international playing conditions.
Crucially, the centre will not only serve cricketers but will also be accessible to non-cricket athletes. Shah has even communicated this plan to Neeraj Chopra, showcasing the facility’s broader sports utility. “We wanted to make the best use of what we got on a platter. In 2008, we got that land and I don’t know why my predecessors didn’t use that. I am lucky that it was in my destiny to raise the academy,” Shah remarked, emphasizing that the National Cricket Academy (NCA) had been functioning out of Chinnaswamy Stadium until now.
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Beyond the High Performance Centre, the BCCI is focusing on the development of cricket across all Indian states, including the North-East and Jammu regions. Shah reiterated that the BCCI is committed to supporting these states, facilitating their right to opportunity through the game. He highlighted the significant financial support now being extended to these regions, with funds increased from Rs 5 crore to Rs 20 crore to support cricket development activities.
There were speculations about VVS Laxman’s future as the head of the NCA with his contract set to expire in September, but Shah assured continuity, stating that Laxman would continue in his role. The potential renewal of Laxman’s contract reflects the BCCI’s emphasis on stable leadership during a transformative period for Indian cricket.
Among other major decisions, the BCCI is contemplating the pros and cons of the Impact Player rule introduced in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Shah mentioned that extensive discussions had taken place with franchise owners and domestic teams regarding the rule’s implications. While it offers the advantage of including an extra Indian player, it also affects the role of all-rounders. The BCCI is seeking feedback before making a final decision, keeping in mind the interests of broadcasters and the overall growth of the game.
Discussions are also underway regarding the Big Auction in the IPL. Shah indicated that the BCCI values both minority and majority opinions among the franchises. The board’s decision will balance continuity and necessary shuffling, crucial for the game’s development.
Moreover, the number of IPL games is expected to rise to 84 in the upcoming season, though this is yet to be confirmed. The BCCI is considering player workload and scheduling constraints before finalizing the decision.
Concerning the future of Test cricket, Shah advocated for a special fund dedicated to the longest format of the game, highlighting the financial and operational burdens of hosting Test matches. “It’s very expensive to host Test matches. If the (ICC) Board approves, we can do that,” Shah explained. The BCCI also faces challenges with day-night Tests in India, which often conclude in just two days, causing losses to spectators and broadcasters.
Lastly, Shah clarified that the introduction of a World Test Championship for women’s cricket would depend on more nations participating in women’s Test matches. At present, India, Australia, and England are the primary teams playing this format. Expanding the participation is seen as essential for progressing towards a structured women’s Test championship.
The BCCI’s strategic planning and decisions underscore its commitment to the sport’s holistic development while balancing existing commitments and future growth potential.