The highly-anticipated India-Pakistan game at the 2023 ICC World Cup could be rescheduled on account of Navratri festival celebrations on the same day in Ahmedabad, according to a report in The Indian Express.
India vs Pakistan – the original schedule
The much-hyped fixture is currently scheduled to be held on Sunday, October 15, at the Narendra Modi International Stadium in Ahmedabad. It is the only league-stage fixture for both India and Pakistan at the venue. The stadium is also slated to host the final, on November 19.
Months ahead of the game, there have been extensive hotel bookings in Ahmedabad on and around the day. Fans are expected to flock from every corner of the world to witness the fixture at the biggest cricket stadium in the world. Flight tickets have also witnessed a high surge during the same time.
India vs Pakistan – what has changed?
Navratri, the annual Hindu festival which extends over nine days, is set to run from October 15 to 24 this year. The first day of Navratri will clash with the India-Pakistan clash.
Given that the festival is celebrated with fervour in the state of Gujarat, including Ahmedabad, having the fixture the same day as the opening of the Navratri could turn out to be a serious challenge in terms of security.
On Navratri, there are several mass gatherings around the city, with celebrations that run through the night. In such a scenario, the game in Ahmedabad – which is likely to be attended by dignitaries – can be rescheduled to a different date.
India vs Pakistan – is there a new date?
Not yet. However, reports suggest that the fixture could be moved ahead or behind by a day (October 14 or 16). October 14 makes more sense, given the Navratri will be in its second day on October 16.
However, the logistical issues that come with the rescheduling cannot be undermined, especially since the original schedule was crafted after several back and forth discussions between the BCCI, ICC and PCB.
“A top BCCI official, who did not wish to be identified,” was quoted by the Indian Express: “We are mulling the options that we have and a decision will be taken soon. We have been told by the security agencies that a high-profile game like India vs Pakistan, for which thousands of travelling fans are expected to reach Ahmedabad, should be avoided since they will be stretched because of Navratri.”
It remains to be seen if there is a change, and when. Given that several fans have already made travel arrangements, a new date would be a major headache for all parties involved.
