Cricket fans around the world are eagerly awaiting the release of the ICC World Cup Schedule, and according to recent reports, the schedule is set to be unveiled on 27th June. This date, which falls just 100 days before the tournament’s commencement on 5th October, is expected to provide fans with the much-anticipated details of the highly anticipated cricket extravaganza.
The delay in releasing the World Cup Schedule has been a source of frustration for fans, primarily due to the ongoing tension between the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). These two cricket governing bodies, representing rival nations, have been engaged in a heated exchange. The PCB has yet to provide its approval for the draft schedule sent by the ICC, citing the need for clearance from the Pakistani government regarding the match venues.
The main point of contention arises from the PCB’s reluctance to play against India at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, expressing concerns over safety. As a result, there are indications that the match may be relocated to Chennai. However, the PCB’s objections do not end there. They have also raised concerns about facing Afghanistan in Chennai and Australia in Bengaluru. The PCB argues that they are not comfortable playing against a spin-dependent Afghan team on a spin-friendly track in Chennai and has requested to face Afghanistan in Bengaluru and Australia in Chennai. However, the BCCI has disregarded these requests and rejected the proposed changes.
These ongoing disputes and delays have hindered the release of the ICC World Cup Schedule. Once the necessary approvals are received from the PCB, the ICC is expected to promptly announce the schedule. As of now, 27th June appears to be the most likely date for the release, marking a significant step forward for cricket enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the tournament’s fixtures.