News DeskDubai, UAE – The International Cricket Council (ICC) has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative to offer affordably priced tickets for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, with prices starting at just five Dirhams and free entry for spectators under 18. This initiative aims to create a lasting legacy for the first global women’s cricket event hosted in the region.
ICC Chief Executive Geoff Allardice made the announcement during a media conference alongside Emirates Cricket Board’s (ECB) Board Member Zayed Abbas. Allardice praised the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as a diverse and vibrant venue for the event. “One of the exciting things about the UAE is its diversity. It’s a place where the entire world is represented! This means that this is effectively a home World Cup for all 10 teams and players can enjoy the support of passionate fans,” he stated.
Highlighting the affordable ticket prices and free entry for those under 18, Allardice emphasized the ICC’s commitment to making the event accessible to a broad audience. Additionally, the ICC will collaborate with the ECB and the Dubai Sports Council to host criio festivals, providing over 500 girls with the opportunity to experience cricket for the first time.
Allardice expressed gratitude to the ECB for hosting the tournament, which was relocated from Bangladesh. He also acknowledged the contributions of the Dubai Sports Council, Dubai International Stadium, and Sharjah Cricket Stadium. A video of a spectacular laser show on the tournament was released at the iconic Burj Khalifa as part of the announcement.
ECB Board Member Zayed Abbas expressed enthusiasm about hosting the tournament, highlighting the UAE’s experience and reputation in staging top-class cricket events. “The Emirates Cricket Board is delighted to stage the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in the UAE. The tournament will see the best women cricketers from around the world compete for the biggest prize in the T20 format,” he said.
The 10-team tournament, scheduled from October 3 to October 20, will feature 23 matches over 18 days. The 20 league matches will be held in Dubai and Sharjah, with semi-finals on October 17 in Dubai and October 18 in Sharjah. The final will take place in Dubai.
Group A includes six-time champions Australia, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Group B comprises Bangladesh, England, South Africa, West Indies, and Scotland. Abbas assured that the ECB would collaborate closely with all stakeholders, including the ICC and the Bangladesh Cricket Board, to ensure a memorable experience for participants and fans.
This initiative marks a significant step in promoting women’s cricket and engaging a broader audience in the UAE, showcasing the region’s capability to host world-class sporting events.
