MUMBAI: The ICC T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to take place in October later this year, is very much on track, hopeful kite flying noises from the corridors of power within the BCCI that it would give way to the Indian Premier League notwithstanding.
While the organizers are optimistic that the World Cup will go ahead as planned, the tournament faces another challenge – a potential clash with other major sports in Australia.
With the Australia Football League (AFL) and National Rugby League seasons suspended, they may now clash with the T20 World Cup as and when they resume.
“In the event they have extended seasons… we still think the World Cup is a really strong proposition that might not come here again for 10 or 20 years,” Nick Hockley, CEO of the organising committee, told Australian Associated Press.
“People love a World Cup. Cricket is Australia’s national sport … and T20 is the format that appeals to the broadest possible demographic.”
The women’s T20 tournament was a huge success, and the organizers expect a similar reception at the men’s tournament.
The ICC has maintained that there are no changes in its plans as of now and Hockley is optimistic that this will remain the case.
“We’re very encouraged already by the take up in terms of ticket sales,” he said.
“We’re wanting to give ourselves the best possible chance of going ahead as planned, so there’s no imminent or quick decision.
“Hopefully it’s all resolved and we go ahead. In the event that it isn’t completely resolved, we are looking at all the different scenarios. Which is only prudent.”
