New Zealand women's team captain, Suzie Bates, would prefer next year's home ODI World Cup to be postponed but not played behind closed doors amid COVID-19 pandemic.
The quadrennial 50-over tournament is scheduled to be played from February 6 to March 7, 2021, across different venues in New Zealand. However, with the deadly outbreak leading to cricket's global suspension, there is a threat of uncertainty looming large over the women's flagship event.
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"Yeah, that would be a huge disappointment (playing it in empty stadiums)," Bates told ESPNcricinfo in a video. "Especially with how far the women's game has come (in terms of popularity). If you had asked me five years ago, it would've said it wouldn't make too much of a difference (in terms of crowds)."
"Whereas, nowadays, the attention we're getting and the fact that it's at home, that would be a huge shame if it is played like that (behind closed doors."
"Personally, I would rather wait till we can do it as normal when all this (viral outbreak) has cleared up and all teams are able to travel and we're allowed crowds at the grounds. That would be my preference," she added.
The global qualifier slated to take place in Sri Lanka between July 3-19 is also under ICC review because of the ongoing health crisis. Australia, England, South Africa, and India have already qualified for the main event but the fate of four other World Cup participants is to be decided via the qualifier, which might not even take place on time.
"I feel New Zealand Cricket (NZC) is in a position whey they realize how important the World Cup is for the women's game in the country, and cricket in general," said Bates, putting the onus on NZC and ICC to ensure women's cricket doesn't take a backward step.
"And they are really excited about the opportunity to see how many people they can get into the grounds around the country. It's not just about the TV but also the atmosphere at the grounds."
"So, I think they would be doing everything they can to play it as normal. And look, if there has to be changes made, I have faith that they'll (NZC and ICC will) look to have it with crowds."
