Sports Desk: The T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to be held in India, has come under serious threat following the spread of a deadly Nipah virus, raising fresh concerns over the mega event’s smooth organization.
According to reports, the outbreak of a new strain of Nipah virus in India has cast uncertainty over the tournament, which is set to begin on February 7. The virus has started spreading just weeks before the start of the World Cup, prompting questions about player safety and event logistics.
Health authorities in West Bengal have confirmed five cases, including two nurses and a doctor, all of whom are reported to be in critical condition. At least 100 people have been shifted to quarantine, while safety and surveillance measures have been further tightened.
Experts warn that if the virus spreads further, it could severely impact preparations, logistics, travel arrangements, and security planning for the tournament.
The situation adds to existing controversy surrounding the event. Earlier, Bangladesh refused to travel to India, citing security concerns. However, the ICC rejected Bangladesh’s request and replaced the team with Scotland in the group stage.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) also backed Bangladesh’s stance, stating that Pakistan’s participation in the World Cup would be subject to approval from the Government of Pakistan. Sources have further indicated that Pakistan may also consider boycotting its match against India.
The Nipah virus is a highly fatal disease transmitted from bats to humans, with a reported mortality rate of up to 75%. Currently, there is no proven treatment available worldwide, making the outbreak a major concern for international sporting events.
