The much-awaited clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan in Ahmedabad on October 15 for the 2023 ICC Men’s ODI World Cup is likely to be rescheduled for another date citing security concerns.
Notably, October 15th also happens to be the first day of Navratri during which Garba nights are organised across Gujarat attracting huge crowd.
As per a report in The Indian Express, the security agencies have advised BCCI to change the date of the clash between the arch-rivals since they will be ‘stretched’ due to Navratri.
“We are mulling the options that we have and a decision will be taken soon. We have been told by the security agencies that a high-profile game like India vs Pakistan, for which thousands of travelling fans are expected to reach Ahmedabad, should be avoided since they will be stretched because of Navratri,” a top BCCI official was quoted as saying by the publication on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, BCCI secretary Jay Shah has asked the state associations which are hosting World Cup matches to attend a meeting on July 27 in New Delhi during which discussions around the Indo-Pak match in Ahmedabad will be held and a new date could be announced.
“I feel it will be in the best interest of all concerned that we meet again to exchange notes and take stock of any issue which needs discussion and decision. Accordingly, you are hereby requested to attend a meeting of the World Cup hosting associations,” the letter sent to all state associations states.
Notably, Ahmedabad has been allotted five matches including the tournament opener between defending champions England, who will face New Zealand on October 5 at the Narendra Modi Stadium. The iconic stadium will also host England vs Australia on November 5 followed by South Africa vs Afghanistan on November 10 before the final on November 19.
According to multiple reports, hotel prices in Ahmedabad have witnessed a massive rise ever since the schedule for the marquee event was announced last month.