MUMBAI: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has become the frontrunner to host the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) declined to host the event. Despite the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s (BCB) efforts to keep the tournament, concerns over the country’s internal turmoil have led the International Cricket Council (ICC) to consider alternative venues.
The UAE, with its world-class cricketing facilities in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, has emerged as the most likely candidate to take over hosting duties. Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka are also in the running, but the ICC is expected to make a final decision soon, as time is running out to finalize arrangements.
BCCI Secretary Jay Shah confirmed that India declined the ICC’s request to host the tournament, citing the ongoing monsoon season and the fact that India is already set to host the Women’s ODI World Cup next year. “I have categorically said no. We’re in the monsoon, and on top of that, we will host the Women’s ODI World Cup next year. I don’t want to give any kind of signals that I want to hold consecutive World Cups,” Shah stated during a meeting with TOI reporters in Mumbai.
Meanwhile, the ICC has announced that Malaysia will host the Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup in 2025 after Thailand backed out as co-host. The tournament, featuring 16 teams, including debutant Samoa, will take place across four venues, with defending champions India grouped with West Indies, Sri Lanka, and hosts Malaysia. The event is scheduled to begin on January 18, 2025, and will conclude with the final on February 2.
