Cricket's New Frontier: Why BCCI Chose Smaller Venues for Women’s ODI World Cup 2025

Image Source: Times of India

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has made a shocking declaration to stage the ICC Women's ODI World Cup 2025 in smaller stadiums throughout India. Guwahati, Visakhapatnam, Mullanpur, Indore, and Thiruvananthapuram have been selected to host this showpiece event, and fans as well as analysts have reacted differently to this choice. This choice is based on BCCI's policy of rotation and its mission to take cricket beyond its usual strongholds.

Key Points

Rotation Policy: The BCCI has introduced a venue rotation policy to provide smaller cities with a chance to host World Cup matches. Cities that host matches in the 2023 ODI World Cup will not be eligible for the 2024 ICC Men's T20 World Cup or the Women's ODI World Cup 2025.
Promoting Cricket in Smaller Cities: The chosen venues work to make international cricket more accessible to smaller cities, building up local interest and growing the game's presence around India.

Venue Selection Strategy:

The final will be played at Mullanpur's Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium on its first international women's outing.

Thiruvananthapuram has been selected as it has the immigration and visa amenities to easily accommodate teams that have to play Pakistan under the hybrid hosting programme.

Criticism of Smaller Venues: Opponents state that conducting such a high-profile tournament in smaller locations may reduce its exposure and accessibility. Such legendary venues as Eden Gardens and Wankhede did not feature in the list.
Historical Context: India previously hosted the Women's ODI World Cup in 2013 with finals taking place at prominent grounds like Brabourne Stadium. This represents a notable change in policy by favoring newer centers over veteran ones.
Women's Cricket Growth: With increasing popularity of women’s cricket post-Women’s Premier League (WPL), some believe larger venues would have provided a more fitting stage for this coveted trophy.

Conclusion

While the decision to choose smaller venues has sparked debate, it reflects BCCI’s commitment to democratizing cricket across India. As excitement builds for the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, this bold move could redefine how international tournaments are hosted in the country.

Sources: 777score.com, Footboom1.com, Femalecricket.com, Indian Express, New Indian Express, Ground News

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