Escalating tensions in the Middle East have forced the International Cricket Council to delay one of its key governance meetings scheduled to take place in Qatar later this month.
The ICC has postponed its three-day meeting planned in Doha from March 25 to March 27 because of the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran.
ICC member boards were informed of the postponement through a formal communication issued on Saturday, a day before the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final between India and New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, according to a report by PTI.
ICC leadership meeting affected by regional tensions
The gathering had been expected to bring together senior figures from across global cricket, including ICC Board Directors, Chief Executives, Committee Members and other members of the organisation’s leadership.
Held as part of the ICC’s regular governance calendar, the meeting typically provides an opportunity for the sport’s top administrators to deliberate on major issues affecting the present and future of international cricket.
The meeting is now expected to be rescheduled next month on the same continent.
India win T20 World Cup final in Ahmedabad
The final was played on Sunday, with India securing their third World Cup title after defeating New Zealand by 96 runs.
India posted 255 for 5 before bowling New Zealand out for 159 in 19 overs to clinch the trophy.
Qatar’s growing role in international cricket
Doha had originally been selected as the venue for the meeting in recognition of Qatar’s increasing engagement with the sport and its collaboration with cricket’s governing body.
“The ICC’s support of and collaboration with the Qatar Cricket Association and Olympic Committee, Cricket in Qatar has fuelled remarkable progress for the sport in recent years,” the International Cricket Council said in an official release.
The postponement reflects the broader impact of the escalating Middle East conflict on international cricket administration, with the ICC now expected to reconvene its leadership gathering next month once conditions allow.
