Agency :
Bangladesh, USA and Pakistan are among 17 member nations that have, in individual or joint capacities, expressed interest to host ICC tournaments in the 2024-2031 FTP cycle.
The other countries that submitted a “preliminary technical proposal” to the ICC for the same are Australia, England, India, Ireland, Malaysia, Namibia, New Zealand, Oman, Scotland, South Africa, Sri Lanka, West Indies, UAE and Zimbabwe.
Post the 2023 World Cup, slated to be held in India, there will be eight global tournaments in the eight-year cycle. The events include two Men’s Cricket World Cups, four Men’s T20 World Cups and two Champions Trophies. The ICC said that the hosts for the World Test Championship Final, the women’s and under-19 events in the new cycle will be determined in a “separate process” and will be done later this year.
The 17 countries will now submit a more detailed proposal come September and the ICC Board will take the final decision in due course.
“We are delighted with the response from our Members to hosting ICC men’s white-ball events post 2023. This process gives us an opportunity to extend our range of hosts and grow interest in cricket worldwide, reaching more fans whilst creating a long-term legacy for the sport,” ICC Acting Chief Executive Geoff Allardice said.
“Cricket has more than a billion fans around the world and ICC events have a proven track record of bringing significant economic and social benefits for host countries. These events provide hosts with a wonderful opportunity to work closely with local communities to grow the game whilst supporting economic and social development public policy goals.”
The Pakistan Cricket Board have already said that it has expressed its interest in hosting six ICC events in the next cycle and they are hopeful of earning the hosting rights of “at least one event.” The Bangladesh Cricket Board is keen on hosting the 2025 Champions Trophy. The BCCI, which is non-committal in guaranteeing tax exemption, plans to host three events.
