ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 match between Pakistan vs England likely to be rescheduled - Reports

CAB has requested BCCI to reschedule ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 league match of Pakistan vs England

The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) has recently made a request to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to reschedule the England vs Pakistan ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 league stage match, originally dated for November 12. The reason behind this appeal is the auspicious Hindu festival of Kali Puja, which falls on the same day and holds immense significance in Kolkata, the host city of the game. With heightened security concerns and logistical challenges, CAB has suggested November 11 as a viable alternative date for the crucial match at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens.

Cricket has a way of uniting people, but it can also lead to challenging situations when it coincides with religious festivities. Recently, the Ahmedabad police also faced a similar difficulty when the date India vs Pakistan game clashed with the nine-day Hindu festival of Navaratri. However, a solution was found by rescheduling the match to avoid any unnecessary controversies. The official confirmation is yet to be out.

The CAB’s appeal to reschedule the England vs Pakistan ODI World Cup match stems from the realisation that November 12 marks Kali Pujo, a revered Hindu festival in Kolkata and the surrounding region. Recognising the importance of religious sentiments, CAB officials held discussions with city police authorities and acknowledged law-and-order concerns during the festivities.

In 2011, during the ODI World Cup, Kolkata’s Eden Gardens faced disappointment as it was deemed unfit to host the India vs England game. The stadium was undergoing renovation, and the ICC inspection team expressed doubts about the completion of reconstruction work on time. Since then, the CAB has been vigilant about ensuring smooth cricketing events, but this time, the clash with Kali Puja has put them in a difficult position.

The BCCI secretary Jay Shah, has addressed similar concerns raised by other boards regarding travel logistics between matches. Consequently, date changes were considered necessary to accommodate the concerns .

While the BCCI has not yet made an official statement regarding the rescheduling, it is vital for all parties involved to collaborate and find a balanced solution. The authorities must prioritise the safety and comfort of the players and spectators, as well as respect the religious sentiments of the community.

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