Xtra time Web Desk: Huge relief for the fans as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has firmly declined a request from Hyderabad Cricket Association to make a change in the World Cup 2023 schedule. The HCA had expressed concerns about hosting back-to-back matches on October 9 and 10, particularly due to security arrangements, given that the Pakistan cricket team would be in action on October 10.
In an effort to accommodate Pakistan’s schedule, the match between New Zealand and the Netherlands, originally slated for October 12, was moved up to October 11. This adjustment was made to allow Pakistan sufficient time to recover from their encounter with India, which is scheduled for October 6 in Hyderabad.
However, the HCA’s request to modify their fixtures was met with rejection by the BCCI. The Indian Cricket Board cited the proximity of ticket sales for the 50-over World Cup, set to begin in less than a week, as a key reason for refusing the change. They emphasized that it was too late to make further alterations, especially considering the extensive changes already made to the schedule since its initial release on June 27.
Ultimately, the BCCI’s decision underscores the challenges of organizing a global sporting event with numerous logistical considerations and the need to balance the interests of multiple cricketing nations.