Hyderabad Cricket Association Expresses Concerns Regarding World Cup Schedule
Hyderabad Cricket Association’s Security Concerns Cast Shadow Over Back-to-Back ODIs
With the impending sale of tickets for the highly anticipated 2023 World Cup, the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) has posed a challenge to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding the hosting of consecutive ODIs on October 9 and 10.
Recent reports reveal that the HCA communicated its apprehensions to the BCCI, citing concerns raised by the Hyderabad Police about ensuring adequate security for two matches: New Zealand vs Netherlands on October 9 and Pakistan vs Sri Lanka on October 10. While the BCCI has assured the HCA that it will address the issue, the situation remains fluid.
Interestingly, this development comes just a few days ahead of the commencement of ticket sales for the World Cup, scheduled for August 25. The International Cricket Council (ICC) had to revise the initial World Cup schedule, modifying the dates of nine matches, including the high-stakes clash between India and Pakistan in Ahmedabad. This rescheduling caused a ripple effect, altering Pakistan’s match against Sri Lanka in Hyderabad from October 12 to October 10. Notably, there is uncertainty whether the BCCI consulted the HCA when finalizing the revised schedule.
The HCA, presently overseen by a Supreme Court-appointed administrator, has also voiced concerns about providing adequate practice opportunities for all four participating teams at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.
As the scenario unfolds, Sri Lanka is set to travel to Hyderabad on October 8, following a day-night fixture in Delhi against South Africa on October 7. Pakistan and Netherlands will commence their World Cup journey in Hyderabad on October 6, contesting their opening encounter, and will stay put for their second group-stage match. New Zealand, engaging with Netherlands on October 9, will arrive in Hyderabad after their inaugural match against England on October 5 in Ahmedabad.
In case the BCCI is unable to accommodate schedule adjustments, the HCA has signaled its intention to rally resources, including security personnel, to ensure the seamless execution of the matches. As cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the 2023 World Cup, these security concerns cast a temporary shadow over the smooth progression of the tournament.
