Initially, India’s match against Pakistan in the ODI World Cup 2023 was set to be held on October 15 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 originally had the highly-anticipated India vs Pakistan match scheduled for October 15 in Ahmedabad. However, reports suggest that the fixture might be rescheduled due to the clash with the beginning of the Navaratri festival in the state. Given the significant celebrations of Navaratri in Ahmedabad and Gujarat, security agencies have raised concerns over logistical challenges. Consequently, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly exploring options to restructure the itinerary, even though tickets for the high-profile match have already been sold out.
“We are considering various options, and a decision will be made shortly. According to security agencies, hosting a high-profile match like India vs Pakistan during Navratri should be avoided due to the anticipated influx of thousands of traveling fans to Ahmedabad. The BCCI official shared this information with The Indian Express on the condition of anonymity.”
According to a PTI report, the match is likely to be rescheduled and brought forward by a day, to be held on October 14 instead. NDTV sources have reported that the BCCI has already sent a request to the ICC for the change in schedule.
The news agency further stated that the match will remain at the Narendra Modi Stadium, but fans will have to adjust their travel plans accordingly.
Due to soaring hotel prices, it was reported earlier this month that enthusiastic fans flying in from various parts of the world have taken to booking hospital beds in the city as an alternative.
The highly-anticipated India vs Pakistan clash in the ICC ODI World Cup 2023, initially scheduled for October 15 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, is likely to be rescheduled. The reason behind this potential change is the clash with the beginning of the Navaratri festival in the state, which has raised concerns over logistical issues according to security agencies. Despite tickets for the match already being sold out, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly looking to restructure the itinerary.
A top BCCI official stated, “We are considering our options, and a decision will be made soon. Security agencies have advised that hosting a high-profile game like India vs Pakistan, with thousands of traveling fans expected to reach Ahmedabad during Navaratri, should be avoided.”
As per a PTI report, the match is expected to be preponed by a day and held on October 14 instead. The BCCI has already sent a request to the ICC for the change in schedule. Although the match will still be held at the Narendra Modi Stadium, fans will need to adjust their travel plans accordingly.
The soaring hotel fares have led passionate fans flying in from around the world to reportedly book hospital beds in the city as an alternative.
The change in the match date may also impact Pakistan’s preparation as they will have one day less to get ready for the high-profile clash.
To address these concerns, BCCI secretary Jay Shah has written to associations hosting World Cup matches, calling for a meeting in New Delhi on July 27. During the meeting, the board will discuss the issues with other boards and make a decision on the revised date and location for the India vs Pakistan match.
If the date for the match does get changed, there could be widespread cancellations of hotel and flight bookings.
