Amidst preparations for the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, slated to unfold in the West Indies and the United States starting June 2, unsettling reports of terror threats originating from an organisation in North Pakistan have emerged. Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister, Keith Rowley, has addressed the issue, emphasising the importance of heightened security measures to safeguard players and spectators.
Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has swiftly responded by collaborating closely with the host nations to reinforce security arrangements. Cricket West Indies has affirmed implementing a comprehensive security plan to mitigate potential risks, ensuring the safety and well-being of all involved.
“ICC is working closely with the host countries to ensure appropriate plans are in place. We immediately spoke to the authorities as the reports emerged, and the Cricket West Indies has assured everyone that a comprehensive security plan is in place to address any risk,” an ICC official informed NDTV Sports in response to inquiries regarding the terror threat to the Men’s T20 World Cup.
Prime Minister Assures Collaborative Measures Taken to Combat any Hindrance
Prime Minister Rowley highlighted the severity of the threats, prompting heightened vigilance in the Caribbean region, renowned for its fervent love for cricket. Intelligence agencies and security forces are diligently collaborating to enact necessary security measures in anticipation of the event.
“Unfortunately, the threat of terrorism in its many and varied expressions is an ever-present danger in the world of the 21st century. It is against this backdrop that all nations, like our region when hosting large or vulnerable gatherings, make an extra effort in national security preparations and response readiness to take seriously, all threats, expressed or implied,” PM Rowley conveyed to Daily Express.
In light of the dynamic nature of potential threats, PM Rowley emphasised the importance of remaining vigilant and proactive in ensuring public safety. Despite challenges in mitigating risks, concerted efforts are underway at local and regional levels to enhance intelligence gathering and security operations.
The upcoming tournament, the ninth edition of the marquee event, will feature 20 teams divided into four groups of five each for the initial round. Following the conclusion of the preliminary stage, the top two teams from each group will progress to the Super Eight stage, further intensifying the competition.
The semi-finals, scheduled for June 26 and 27 in Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago, will witness the top teams vying for a coveted spot in the final. Barbados will host the climactic showdown on June 29, with reserve days allocated for both the semi-finals and the final to account for unforeseen circumstances.
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