World Cup 2023 Schedule : The much-awaited World Cup 2023 is fast approaching, but the tournament’s schedule has hit a rough patch yet again. In a recent development, the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) has requested a change in the World Cup schedule for the Pakistan vs England game on November 12. The reason cited is the celebration of Kali Puja, one of the biggest festivals in West Bengal, which will result in inadequate security resources.
Let’s have a look into the latest updates and challenges surrounding the World Cup 2023 schedule
CAB’s Request for Rescheduling
The CAB has urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to reconsider the schedule for the Pakistan vs England game on November 12. The festival of Kali Puja falls on the same day, leading to significant security concerns in Kolkata, where the match is scheduled to be played at Eden Gardens.
Kali Puja’s Significance
Kali Puja is a major festival celebrated in West Bengal with great fervor. Thousands of local clubs in Kolkata organize events, attracting large crowds. The city’s police will be preoccupied with maintaining law and order during the festivities, posing challenges in providing a separate security cover for the cricket match.
Kolkata Police’s Security Concern
The Kolkata Police has expressed concerns over the availability of resources to ensure security during the match day. Given the festival’s significance and anticipated events, they are apprehensive about managing both the festival and the cricket match simultaneously.
CAB’s Stand and Official Confirmation
While CAB President Snehasish Ganguly denied sending any formal request to the ICC, senior members revealed that Kolkata Police raised the security issue. CAB awaits an official confirmation from Kolkata Police before taking any further steps.
Additional Requests for Schedule Changes
Apart from the PAK vs ENG match, several Full Member nations of the ICC have also requested changes in the World Cup schedule due to logistical challenges. The blockbuster clash between India and Pakistan in Ahmedabad is one of the fixtures expected to undergo a change of date.
BCCI’s Response and Possible Schedule Tweaks
BCCI Secretary Jay Shah confirmed that they are working with the ICC to address the requests for schedule changes. The date of the India vs Pakistan match in Ahmedabad might be altered due to logistical issues, despite Shah dismissing security concerns.
As cricket fans eagerly await the World Cup 2023, the schedule’s delayed state poses challenges for organizers and teams alike. While cricket enthusiasts are thrilled about witnessing some epic clashes, the logistical and security constraints require careful consideration. The ICC and BCCI are working diligently to find solutions and ensure a smooth and secure tournament.
Let’s stay tuned for further updates on the World Cup 2023 schedule and hope that all challenges are resolved swiftly, allowing cricket’s biggest extravaganza to unfold seamlessly on the Indian soil.
Read more : ICC World Cup 2023 Schedule Revealed: Dates, Fixtures, Teams, Venues, and Key Matches
