The International Cricket Council (ICC) is under intense fire for its startling lack of preparation for the rapidly approaching 2025 Women's Cricket World Cup. With the tournament due to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka in just a few months, a cloud of confusion and frustration hangs over the event due to a critical absence of basic information.
Key details that remain shrouded in mystery include:
- The official fixture schedule: Teams and fans are still waiting for the full list of match timings and dates.
- Ticket sale launches: No information on when or how supporters can purchase seats for the games.
- Finalised host venues: The specific stadiums across India and Sri Lanka that will stage the matches are yet to be officially confirmed and announced.
A Damaging Pattern of Neglect
This disarray is not an isolated incident but appears to be part of a deeply concerning trend within the ICC. The organisation is being accused of consistently treating the women's game as a second thought, failing to afford it the same level of professionalism, promotion, and respect as the men's equivalent. This last-minute approach undermines the phenomenal growth and commercial potential of women's cricket, leaving players, coaches, and broadcasters in a state of limbo and unable to plan effectively.
Stakeholders Left in the Lurch
The ripple effect of this disorganisation is vast. National cricket boards are struggling to arrange logistics and preparation tours. Players are unable to mentally and physically map out their peak performance windows. Most crucially, fans are being locked out of the process, unable to book travel or secure time off work, which threatens to significantly dampen stadium atmospheres and global viewership.
This lack of engagement risks squandering the hard-won momentum from previous successful tournaments, potentially alienating the sport's rapidly expanding fanbase.
A Call for Accountability and Change
The ongoing silence from the ICC is deafening. Cricket authorities must urgently prioritise the Women's World Cup, providing transparent communication and a concrete plan. The credibility of the sport's governing body is on the line. To ensure the tournament's success and uphold the value of women's cricket, immediate and decisive action is required to rectify this unacceptable situation.
