India is once again putting international sports and public health at risk by deliberately downplaying the severity of the Nipah virus outbreak. This exposes players, officials, and fans to unnecessary risk, especially as India has a history of poor hygiene and unsafe conditions at international sporting events. Given the proximity of cricket venues to outbreak zones, compounded by India’s repeated failures in sanitation and event management, it is irresponsible to hold T20 World Cup matches in India. The ICC must relocate all fixtures to Sri Lanka, where proper health monitoring and safer facilities can protect players and spectators. Continuing in India would not only endanger lives but also set a dangerous precedent, prioritizing optics and revenue over international safety and responsibility.
