Amidst concerns raised by the Hyderabad Police about their inability to ensure security for consecutive matches, the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) has joined two other state units in urging the BCCI for adjustments to the ODI World Cup schedule.
Security apprehensions have surfaced regarding the 2023 ODI World Cup schedule at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. The planned matches include New Zealand vs Netherlands on October 9 and Pakistan vs Sri Lanka on October 10. The Hyderabad Police has conveyed their inability to ensure security on consecutive days, with particular concern about the Pakistan fixture.
The Indian Express reported that around 3000 police personnel will be assigned for match security, with a significant presence near the Pakistan team hotel. As a result, HCA has been informed that scheduling New Zealand vs Netherlands on October 9 might hinder providing security for the Pakistan fixture on October 10.
HCA found itself tasked with hosting consecutive matches due to a prior adjustment by the BCCI. This alteration was prompted by Ahmedabad and Kolkata’s inability to accommodate matches on certain dates outlined in the original schedule due to festive considerations.
The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, where India was to face Pakistan on October 15, coincides with the commencement of Navratri. Similarly, Kolkata’s hosting of Pakistan vs England on November 12 at Eden Gardens coincides with the significant Kali Puja festival in Bengal.
Facing criticism for releasing the schedule 100 days ahead of the major event, the BCCI and ICC encountered additional challenges when compelled to revise it due to security apprehensions from two state units.
The affected games were rescheduled a day earlier. Yet, shifting India vs Pakistan match to October 14 created a scenario of three matches on that day, leading to further necessary adjustments. To ensure teams had adequate recovery and practice time between games, a total of nine matches underwent rescheduling.
The BCCI reportedly altered the schedule without consulting the HCA, leaving them taken aback. The Hyderabad police’s security concerns prompted the reconsideration. Meanwhile, tickets for the World Cup, commencing on October 5, are scheduled to be available for purchase from August 25.
Last Updated on August 20, 2023
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