Jay Shah confirms changes will be made to World Cup 2023 schedule including high-profile India-Pakistan clash 

Jay Shah (Source: Twitter)

The Indian Cricket Board is likely to change the date of the blockbuster India vs Pakistan ODI World Cup clash, which was originally set for October 15. There may be a few more changes in dates as board secretary Jay Shah said on Thursday that three full board members have written to the Cricket Governing Body to change the schedule of their matches in India for the marquee event starting on October 5.

In a press conference held after a meeting with the associations hosting the World Cup matches, Shah said the revised schedule would be announced in the next three-four days. It is learned that the date of the IND-PAK match is forced to change because the scheduled date coincides with the opening day of the Navaratri festival, which will pose severe challenges for the state's security forces.

"Three members have written to the Cricket Governing Body for a schedule change. Only the date and timings will be changed, venues will not be changed. If there is a six-day gap between games, we are trying to reduce it to 4-5 days. Picture will be clear in three-four days. Changes will happen in consultation with the governing body," Shah said.

Changing the schedule of the much-awaited India-Pakistan match could be a nightmare for fans as many have already made their travel plans. Many people have made hotel bookings and there are reports that some have sought hospital beds as hotel prices have soared in Ahmedabad. Meanwhile, when asked if there are any security issues, Shah said, "Security is not an issue at all".

Here are the other major points from Jay Shah's press conference

Shah said ticket sales for the ODI World Cup will start soon and fans will get free drinking water at all venues. According to reports, the board has spoken to state associations about housekeeping, toilets and cleanliness in their respective cricket stadiums. Ticket prices for World Cup games were also discussed during the press conference.

Jasprit Bumrah is expected to travel to Ireland for the three-match T20I series in August. India's senior pacer Bumrah, who is currently rehabilitating at the NCA, is likely to return to action during the Ireland tour. "Bumrah is totally fit and he may go to Ireland," Shah told reporters. He also stated that India A will travel to South Africa and England A will visit India.

The 34-year-old also confirmed that the Indian Cricket Board will question Harmanpreet Kaur on her Dhaka outburst and will not challenge her suspension. "Roger Binny and Laxman will question Harmanpreet on her outbursts during the third ODI against Bangladesh. We are not going to challenge her suspension" Shah said on Harmanpreet's two-match ODI suspension.