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[Saba Sports News] Zimbabwe has emerged as one of the two potential hosts for the Women’s T20 World Cup, set to begin on October 3. Originally scheduled for Bangladesh, the tournament is likely to be relocated due to socio-political unrest and security concerns in the country.
The UAE is also being considered as an alternative host after India withdrew from contention on August 15. The ICC board is expected to make a final decision on Tuesday, August 20.
According to ESPNcricinfo, Zimbabwe’s bid to host the event is part of its effort to position itself as a prime cricket destination, having successfully hosted the ODI World Cup Qualifiers in 2018 and 2023. The last time Zimbabwe hosted a World Cup was in 2003, alongside South Africa and Kenya.
While Zimbabwe’s men’s team has missed out on the last two ODI World Cups and two of the last three T20 World Cups, and the women’s team has never qualified for a World Cup, the nation is keen to be a neutral host for the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup.
Zimbabwe is also set to co-host the men’s Under-19 World Cup with Namibia in 2026 and the ODI World Cup with South Africa and Namibia in 2027.
Zimbabwe currently has Harare Sports Club and Queens Sports Club as venues, both of which could host matches for the Women’s T20 World Cup. These venues were also used for the World Cup Qualifiers last year.
With additional international grounds being developed in Victoria Falls and Mutare, Zimbabwe is gearing up for future cricket events. The country’s monsoon season in October is expected to have minimal impact, which could be a significant factor in the ICC’s decision.
Additionally, hosting the event in Zimbabwe is expected to be more cost-effective than in the UAE, which could also sway the decision in their favor.