Sports advisor is optimistic about hosting Women's World Cup in Bangladesh

In recent weeks, political instability in the country has cast a shadow over the organization of the Women’s T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to start in just a month and a half, on October 3, in Bangladesh. The ICC is closely monitoring the situation in Bangladesh and is even considering alternative venues. Amidst these concerns, Asif Mahmud Sajeeb Bhuiyan, the interim advisor on youth and sports, has shared some hopeful news.

In an interview with today’s newspaper, Asif Mahmud said, "I have already started taking action. I hope the Women’s T20 World Cup will not be moved out of Bangladesh. If such an event were to be affected during a time of nation-building, it would be very damaging to our image."

Asif mentioned that he would discuss the World Cup arrangements with the interim government’s Chief Advisor, Dr. Muhammad Yunus, saying, "We are fortunate that Sir Yunus is with us. We have heard about some of the necessary reforms from the Secretary. We will meet on Sunday to discuss these reforms. I will sit with the Secretary, and we will make decisions at the Ministry. With the leadership of the internationally renowned Dr. Muhammad Yunus, who is also a sports enthusiast and was recently involved with the Olympics, we hope to successfully host the Women’s T20 World Cup in our country. We will make every effort to ensure its successful organization." It is reported that the BCB has already sent a letter to General Waker-uz-Zaman regarding the security arrangements for the global tournament.

In response to a question about potential changes in the board’s leadership, Asif stated, "It is not appropriate to talk about individuals in leadership roles. We have advocated for the process and the system. We believe in the system, and we will reform it. We aim to establish a system that will allow whoever leads to uphold the sports sector’s prestige on the global stage."

Asif expressed hope for a combination of youth and experience in managing the ministry, saying, "I consider this responsibility as a compliment. It is possible to achieve good results through a combination of youth and experience. This government has individuals ranging from 25 to 85 years old. The mix of vast experience and youthful energy has helped free the country from fascism after a long time. With this combination of youth and experience, we can achieve great things. Experienced individuals will be in the ministry, and I believe they will help me achieve success."