BCCI Rejects Demand to Prioritize Mumbai for Cricket Finals

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has dismissed the demand by Shiv Sena leader Aaditya Thackeray to prioritize Mumbai as the host city for major cricket finals. BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla stated that the board's policy dictates that the venue for finals is not solely determined by a particular city.

Thackeray's request stemmed from the massive public turnout during the Indian cricket team's victory parade in Mumbai following their triumph in the 2023 ODI World Cup. However, Shukla emphasized that the BCCI considers various factors when selecting venues, including seating capacity and the overall distribution of matches across the country.

"It cannot always be given to a particular city," Shukla said. "There has been a final match -- 1987 World Cup -- in Kolkata also, and Kolkata is considered as Mecca. So it can't be decided that it should always happen in a particular city."

Shukla highlighted the importance of considering the capacity of stadiums, citing the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, which hosted the 2023 World Cup final with a seating capacity of 1,30,000. He also mentioned the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, which can accommodate approximately 66,000 spectators.

"This is purely a decision keeping in mind the entire country and all the venues. You cannot confine to one venue," Shukla explained.

While acknowledging the enthusiasm of Mumbai fans, Shukla emphasized that the BCCI must prioritize the interests of the entire nation. He praised the Mumbai Police for their efficient management of the victory parade and expressed the board's appreciation for the city's support.

"Mumbai is always on our priority list. But saying that all the finals should take place in one city... It never happens in any country," Shukla added.

Tags: #BCCI, #Cricket, #WorldCup, #Mumbai, #VenueSelection