Picture Credit: ICC
The ICC T20 World Cup 2021 is set to shift to United Arab Emirates (UAE) with the present situation in India still not safe to host such a mega event. Although BCCI had earlier requested ICC to give them some time to observe the COVID-19 situation in the country, it is now being reported that the board has finalized that the most feasible situation under the present circumstances will be to shift the event from India to UAE. BCCI Secretary Jay Shah had confirmed that the board will formally communicate to the International Cricket Council (ICC) by Monday (June 28) evening.
With IPL 2021 also set to be played in UAE, it will logistically also be easier to have the T20 World Cup at the same place. The mega event is scheduled to begin on October 17 with the final to be played on November 14. UAE has three world-class cricket stadiums in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah to host the marquee event. In addition, there is a possibility that Oman could also host the qualifiers, if required.
We have officially intimated the ICC: Sourav Ganguly
BCCI President Sourav Ganguly confirmed on Monday that the board has officially communicated to ICC about their decision to shift the event from India to UAE. "We have officially intimated the ICC that the T20 World Cup can be shifted to the United Arab Emirates. The details are being chalked out," Ganguly said.
Despite the change in venue for the ICC T20 World Cup 2021, BCCI will remain the official host of the tournament. ICC had clarified the same through an official statement earlier this month stating that BCCI will remain the hosts of the event regardless of where the tournament is played.