UAE favourites to host Women's T20 WC as BCB seek more time: Reports

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) have asked for some more time to decide whether it could host the Women's T20 World Cup 2024, as political turmoil has forced the ICC to look for other options. The BCCI have declined the chance to host the marquee event, with the UAE and Sri Lanka tipped to be favourites to host it. 

However, according to reports, UAE have emerged as favourites to host the competition if Bangladesh is found not feasible. Dubai and Abu Dhabi will likely host the 23 matches between them if the UAE gets the bod. 

The final decision is expected to be made by the ICC on August 20. The BCB's governing body remains confident of hosting the tournament in Bangladesh but have asked the ICC for an extended deadline

The 10-team event is expected to begin on October 3, and the final will take place on October 20. 

While India would have been ideal, the BCCI have passed up the opportunity mainly due to the weather. "They [ICC] have asked us if we would conduct the World Cup. I have categorically said no. We're in the monsoon, and on top of that, we will host the women's ODI World Cup next year. I don't want to give any kind of signals that I want to hold consecutive World Cups," Shah told Times of India on August 15 (Thursday).

It is understood that the ICC is looking for a time zone similar to Bangladesh and clear weather conditions, and the UAE fits both criteria. Whether the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) will be given the rights remains to be seen. 

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