Syed Qalbe Muhammad
Due to global tensions, especially in the Strait of Hormuz, and several drone attacks in UAE cities, it’s possible that the ICC headquarters might be shifted from Dubai. Safety concerns for road, air, and sea transportation are a major factor. Dubai has been a favorite destination for Pakistan cricket, especially after the Sri Lankan team attack in Lahore in 2009, when many teams refused to play in Pakistan. Dubai was an alternative venue, and former PCB Chairman Najam Sethi started the PSL there. UAE is not a test playing nation but,it frequently hosted international cricket matches.
Pakistan played all sorts of international cricket in UAE – Tests, ODIs, and T20s. Even the new issue is, if arch rivals refuse to play against each other in their own soil, the alternative venue is UAE also for decision-making and other prospects, they sit in Dubai. As rumors spread about ICC head office shifting to Mumbai, it’s being very difficult, specially for Pakistani and Bangladeshi officials, to take part in settlements or ICC meetings.
Until now, ICC doesn’t take any stance to shift its head office, but as it’s my personal opinion, it can be shifted to Hong Kong or Singapore, as both cities are global commercial hubs and undisputed. Colombo is also a good option due to its natural beauty, easy access for all cricket-playing nations, and less immigration formalities. Let’s see what the global cricket body decides – whether they want to continue their headquarters in Dubai or select another destination.
