Former Indian captain and cricket commentator Anjum Chopra has expressed her thoughts on how the shift in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 from Bangladesh to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) could affect India Women’s Cricket Team chances in the competition.
In an exclusive conversation with InsideSport.IN, Anjum Chopra revealed her belief that Bangladesh would have been the perfect host for the marquee event, citing the passionate cricket fanbase and atmosphere that would have elevated the tournament’s excitement.
Bangladesh’s Cricket Love: Missed Opportunity
The ICC’s decision to relocate the tournament was confirmed in August, citing political unrest in Bangladesh as the reason for the venue change. While the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) will continue to oversee the event, matches will now take place in the UAE across two venues – Dubai and Sharjah – from 3 to 20 October.
Anjum Chopra, discussing this development, said, “If the T20 World Cup had been in Bangladesh, it would have been excellent. The cricket-loving crowd in Bangladesh would have created a fantastic atmosphere for women’s cricket. It would have been wonderful to see packed stadiums in Dhaka or Sylhet cheering for the women’s teams.”
She went on to highlight how the growing interest in women’s cricket, coupled with the recent announcements around increased prize money, would have been an ideal match for a cricket-loving nation like Bangladesh.
Challenges in UAE for T20 World Cup
While Anjum Chopra praised the enthusiasm of Bangladeshi fans, she acknowledged the logistical realities of moving the event to the UAE. “The pitches in the UAE are different, and the weather could be a challenge with the warm temperatures,” she remarked. “It’s entering the winter stage, but it’s still quite warm in the UAE.”
Chopra also pointed out the importance of conditions: “India is playing more league matches in Dubai, and only one in Sharjah. Flat, batting-friendly tracks could work to India’s advantage compared to more challenging pitches.”
Mithali Raj weighs in: Familiar Advantage for India
Adding her perspective to the conversation, former India captain Mithali Raj supported the idea that playing in the UAE might give the Indian women’s team an edge. “The conditions in the UAE are quite similar to India,” she said, indicating that this could be a boost for Harmanpreet Kaur’s side as they chase their first-ever global T20 title.
However, Mithali Raj also warned against complacency, reminding fans that all teams will be well-prepared for the tournament.
India’s T20 World Cup hopes
Despite India’s strong performances in international tournaments, the team is yet to secure a major ICC title at the senior level, with the exception of the Under-19 World Cup victory. Mithali Raj expressed her hopes for the team to break this pattern, stating, “Like everyone else, I want the Indian team to win the World Cup. They’ve come close before, but now it’s time for them to go all the way.”
As India prepares for its opening match against New Zealand on October 4, all eyes will be on how they adapt to the UAE conditions and whether this change of venue can work in their favour. The T20 World Cup promises to be a thrilling competition, with India aiming to turn their consistent performances into a much-awaited championship victory.
