India seek tax exemption to host 2011 World Cup

India are seeking tax exemption from the government in a bid to host the 2011 World Cup. "We are planning to host the World Cup in 2011, but we can go ahead only if we get the nod on tax exemption," Jagmohan Dalmiya, the former BCCI and ICC president, was quoted as saying in The News, a Pakistan-based daily.

India has been unable to host major ICC events in the recent past because of a government policy that refuses to waive tax on events held there. The ICC insists on a tax waiver, and it is this that stood in the way of India being allotted the Champions Trophy.

Dalmiya made his comments after meetings with Sunil Dutt, India's sports minister, and the ICC president Ehsan Mani in Delhi recently. He added: "The minister gave us a patient hearing and has promised to take up the matter with the concerned authorities."

The ICC is hoping for a positive response from the Indian government before March 17, when their executive board meets.