India-Pakistan World Cup Match in Ahmedabad Likely to Be Rescheduled; Here's Why

• Image Credit: Google

• Jul 26, 2023 | Dhupali Das

The highly anticipated India-Pakistan World Cup match scheduled for October 15 in Ahmedabad is facing the possibility of being...

Digital Desk: In a surprising turn of events, the highly anticipated India-Pakistan World Cup match scheduled for October 15 in Ahmedabad is facing the possibility of being rescheduled. The International Cricket Council (ICC) had initially slotted this marquee clash on the first day of Navratri, a festival celebrated with immense enthusiasm and mass participation in Gujarat. Considering the security concerns raised by the local authorities, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is seriously contemplating tweaking the itinerary to avoid any potential disruptions during the festivities.

A top BCCI official, who wished to remain anonymous, disclosed that the security agencies had advised against hosting such a high-profile game during Navratri. Ahmedabad, with its impressive Narendra Modi Stadium boasting a capacity of nearly 1 lakh spectators, is expected to attract thousands of fans from both India and Pakistan. The security agencies fear that they would be stretched thin due to the festival's extensive celebrations, which might pose challenges in ensuring the safety and smooth conduct of the match.

When the ICC announced the World Cup schedule last month, four marquee games were designated for Ahmedabad, including the tournament opener between New Zealand and England, India vs. Pakistan, England vs. Australia, and the final. However, the potential rescheduling of the India-Pakistan match could have far-reaching implications for fans who have already made travel arrangements and purchased tickets. The clash between the arch-rivals has historically been sold out within hours and attracts sky-high TRPs for broadcasters, adding to the excitement of the tournament.

Reports from Ahmedabad indicate that most hotels are already fully booked for mid-October, and even homestay options have been exhausted by enthusiastic fans. Furthermore, a surge in airfares is anticipated if the match's new date is announced, leading to potential mass cancellations and last-minute frenzied bookings.

In response to the mounting concerns, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah has written to the associations hosting World Cup matches, calling for an urgent meeting in New Delhi on July 27. The primary agenda of the meeting is expected to be discussing the security concerns surrounding Ahmedabad during Navratri and finding a suitable alternative date for the India-Pakistan clash.

"I feel it will be in the best interest of all concerned that we meet again to exchange notes and take stock of any issue which needs discussion and decision. Accordingly, you are hereby requested to attend a meeting of the World Cup hosting associations," the letter sent to all state associations states.

While cricket fans eagerly await the final decision, the BCCI faces the challenging task of balancing the enthusiasm of fans and ensuring the smooth running of the tournament. The decision to reschedule such a significant match will undoubtedly require careful consideration, with the interests of fans, broadcasters, and the safety of all stakeholders being taken into account.

As the cricketing world watches closely, the BCCI's final verdict on the rescheduling of the India-Pakistan World Cup match is eagerly awaited. Whatever decision is made, it will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the World Cup's proceedings and the overall spirit of the game.