The uncertainty over the India-Pakistan World T20 match in Dharamshala was cleared on Wednesday when ICC CEO Dave Richardson announced that the match, to be played on March 19, would be shifted to Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
He said: “The decision has been taken for security reasons, following consultations with the BCCI, the State associations, the ICC and BCCI security consultants.
“The concerns over security initially arose following the public comments by the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, warning of potential demonstration and attempts to disrupt the peaceful conduct of the match.
“Our concerns relate both to the uncertainty as to the level of those threats as well as the level of commitment to implement any security plan developed to mitigate such threats. The decision was not taken lightly. The ICC and the BCCI understand the disappointment that is likely to be felt by many over the decision to move the match. But the safety and security of the event is of paramount importance to the ICC and we have taken into consideration the concerns shared with us by our security advisers as well as the Pakistan Cricket Board.
“As far as those who have purchased tickets online for the match, they will be offered the choice of a full refund or the opportunity to exchange their tickets for ones for the Kolkata match.
“Finally, I would like to confirm that the ICC has been assured by all State authorities that adequate security measures are in place and will be implemented to ensure that the event is staged in a safe and secure environment for all stakeholders.”
With a capacity of around 62,000, the Eden Gardens can easily absorb those wanting to exchange their tickets. “That was one of the primary concerns when we discussed shifting the match from Dharamshala,” added Sridhar.
It may be recalled 10 days ago, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh wrote to the Home Ministry stating that the State government could not provide security for the match. In a statement released to the media, he had said, “Seeing the attitude of Pakistan towards India and the recent terror attacks in Jammu & Kashmir where soldiers from Himachal Pradesh have also sacrificed their lives, a cricket match with Pakistan should not take place, at least in Dharamshala.”
Following the official announcement by the ICC, it was now up to Pakistan to re-schedule its arrival plans and reach Kolkata ahead of its first match on March 16.
“The PCB was waiting for an official announcement. Now that it has been made, we should soon hear of their arrival plans,” said Sridhar.
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