Alyssa Healy expresses concerns over T20 World Cup host Bangladesh
Australian cricket team captain, Alyssa Healy, has expressed her concerns over the impending ICC Women's T20 World Cup set to be hosted by Bangladesh. The country is currently grappling with the aftermath of political violence that resulted in hundreds of deaths. Healy described the idea of hosting such an event amid these circumstances as the "wrong thing." Due to anti-government protests leading to security concerns in Bangladesh, alternative locations are also being explored.
Healy highlights potential strain on resources
Healy voiced her concerns about the potential strain a cricket event could place on Bangladesh's resources during this difficult time. "I find it really hard to see a cricket event going on over there at the moment and taking resources away from a country that is really struggling," she said. The Australian captain emphasized that the country needs all possible help to assist those affected by the crisis.
ICC to decide on tournament's location
As per media reports, the International Cricket Council (ICC) could announce its decision regarding the tournament's location this week. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is considered a likely choice after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) declined a request. Other potential hosts include Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe. This comes as several governments, including those of Australia, the UK, and India have issued travel warnings for Bangladesh.
Healy expresses faith in ICC's judgment
Despite her concerns, Healy expressed trust in the ICC to make an informed decision. "I'd find it hard to fathom playing there at the moment, as a human being, I feel like it might be the wrong thing to do. But I'll leave it to the ICC to work out," she stated. Australian all-rounder Sophie Molineux also confirmed that the players are kept aware about the developments.
Australia prepares for World Cup amid uncertainty
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the tournament's location, Australia Women are set to announce their Women's T20 World Cup squad. Healy expressed confidence in the team's ability to adapt to any host country. "I feel like we're so well balanced in the...players that we get to choose from, wherever the World Cup gets put, I think we're going to have the right squad to take it on," she said.
