India declines to host ICC Women’s T20 World Cup amid Bangladesh’s political crisis

India has officially declined to host the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, according to a statement from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah on Thursday.

The decision comes in response to a request from the ICC, which had sought a venue change due to the ongoing political crisis in Bangladesh.

In an interview with the Times of India, Shah explained that the BCCI has decided against hosting the tournament, citing the current monsoon season and the upcoming Women's One Day World Cup that India will host next year.

He emphasised that he does not wish to create the impression that India is eager to host back-to-back World Cups. Following India's withdrawal, Sri Lanka and the United Arab Emirates are emerging as strong candidates to host the tournament.

The ICC had initially allocated the tournament to Bangladesh, scheduled to take place from October 3 to October 20, 2024. However, due to the political turmoil in Bangladesh, the ICC is now considering relocating the event.

Travel advisories have been issued by Australia, the UK, India, and New Zealand, urging their citizens to avoid travel to Bangladesh amid the crisis.