BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - AFTER several discussions with its contractors who were to undertake upgrades to the Windsor Park Ground in Dominica, government officials have taken a decision to withdraw the territory from staging games in next year’s ICC T20 World Cup slated for the United States and the Caribbean.
Confirmation came last week in a press statement from Dominica in which the Government indicated that it had expressed interest to host a number of those prestigious games at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium (WPSS), and that the island was selected to host the Super 8 stage of the tournament.
In hosting those matche, the Government was subjected to a number of obligations as stipulated in a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), among which were works to be undertaken at both the Windsor Park Sports Stadium and the Benjamin’s Park, including the upgrading and enhancement of the practice and match venues, various assessments and the creation of additional pitches.
“However, the implementation timelines submitted by the various contractors revealed that it would not be possible to complete these works within the stipulated timeframe before the commencement of the tournament. As a result, a decision was taken not to host any of the matches in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 as it would not be prudent for the Government of Dominica to commit to hosting these games,” the statement read.
It continued: “In light of Dominica’s sterling reputation in hosting international cricket, this decision is considered to be in the best interest of all. The Government of Dominica thanks Cricket West Indies (CWI) for its partnership over the years and looks forward to continued collaboration in the future. The Government of Dominica extends best wishes to the organisers for a successful tournament in June 2024.”
CWI CEO Johnny Greaves acknowledged the position taken by Dominica and indicated that the body understood why it withdrew.
"We acknowledge the dedication of the Government of Dominica in preparing to host matches as a part of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. While recognizing their commitment, we note the reasons stated for the decision that has been made and understand the position. We look forward to continuing to work with the Government of Dominica and the Dominica Cricket Association to host international matches in the future."
Meanwhile, Fawwaz Baksh, Tournament Director for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, added: “When hosting tournaments of this scale, it is inevitable that circumstances will arise which will require the organisers to adapt and alter plans. This is something that happens in any event of this nature, and why we have contingency plans for all functional areas for the hosting of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.”
