The International Cricket Council (ICC) is set to conduct a thorough audit of the recently concluded T20 World Cup at its upcoming board meeting in Colombo. Concerns raised by several member boards regarding the tournament’s management, particularly the USA leg, have prompted this review.
The decision to audit the event comes amidst reports of significant expenses incurred during the USA leg of the tournament. Questions have been raised about the choice of New York as the central venue for marquee matches, with doubts about the stadium’s suitability for such high-profile events.
“The auditing is still on. There are assumptions that ICC may have incurred losses in ticketing as well in the USA leg. The tournament looked mismanaged. The performance of the New York stadium wasn’t up to the mark,” an ICC source told TOI.
“The board will discuss how the organizing committee may have overshot the allocated budget. It was always going to be a herculean task to take mainstream cricket to USA. The ICC team has worked hard to conduct the tournament but expenses need to be checked at the same time,” the source added.
ICC Event Head Resigns
Adding to the turmoil, Chris Tetley, the ICC’s head of events, has tendered his resignation. While Tetley’s departure was reportedly planned, it comes at a time when the ICC is facing scrutiny over the T20 World Cup’s management.
Sources suggest that the ICC may ask Tetley to remain in his role until the conclusion of the Women’s T20 World Cup in October or the Champions Trophy in February to ensure a smooth transition.
Financial Concerns and Questionable Venue Selection
The ICC’s audit will focus on the tournament’s financial aspects, with a particular emphasis on the USA leg. There are speculations about potential losses incurred in ticket sales and other revenue streams.
The choice of New York as the primary venue for the marquee matches has also come under scrutiny. Member boards have questioned the wisdom of selecting a temporary stadium for such high-profile contests, raising doubts about the overall planning and execution of the tournament.
The T20 World Cup is the pinnacle of the shortest format of the game, and its successful organization is crucial for the sport’s growth.
