ICC Urges Bangladesh to Review Venue Decision for T20 World Cup 2026

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has formally asked the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to reconsider its decision regarding participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka.

The request was made during a virtual meeting held on Tuesday, January 13, involving senior officials from both governing bodies. The discussion focused on Bangladesh’s concerns about playing group-stage matches in India amid the current political climate and security considerations.

---

⚖️ Bangladesh Raises Security Concerns Over Matches in India

According to the official tournament schedule, Bangladesh is scheduled to play all four of its group matches in India. However, the BCB has raised objections, citing safety concerns for players, team officials, and support staff.

Tensions between the two neighboring countries have escalated in recent months, leading Bangladesh officials to express hesitation about traveling to India under the current circumstances.

The situation intensified after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) reportedly instructed IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders to release Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from their squad, further reinforcing Bangladesh’s reservations.

---

🌍 BCB Requests ICC to Shift Matches to Sri Lanka

In response to these concerns, the Bangladesh Cricket Board formally requested the ICC to relocate their group-stage matches to Sri Lanka, the tournament’s co-host nation, as a safer alternative venue.

The BCB delegation in the meeting included:

• Aminul Islam (President)

• Shakawath Hossain (Vice President)

• Faruque Ahmed (Vice President)

• Nazmul Abedin (Director & Chairman, Cricket Operations Committee)

• Nizam Uddin Chowdhury (Chief Executive Officer)

Following the meeting, the board reaffirmed that player safety remains the highest priority.

---

🏟️ ICC Maintains Tournament Schedule Stability

On the ICC’s side, officials emphasized that the tournament schedule has already been finalized and any changes could affect overall tournament planning and logistical arrangements.

While no immediate agreement was reached, both sides confirmed that discussions will continue in search of a mutually acceptable solution.

The ICC encouraged Bangladesh to review its position in the broader interest of tournament stability and global cricket commitments.

---

🎙️ Officials Reiterate Firm Positions

Bangladesh Sports Advisor Asif Nazrul has previously stated that Bangladesh is not prepared to travel to India for the World Cup under the current conditions.

BCB Vice President Shakawath Hossain reaffirmed the board’s firm stance after the meeting:

“Our stance is clear and unchanged. We are not willing to travel to India. Discussions are ongoing, but time is becoming a critical factor.”

He added that both sides understand the urgency of resolving the matter, but Bangladesh’s position remains firm until safety concerns are addressed.

---

📌 What Happens Next?

With the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 approaching, continued dialogue between the ICC and BCB will be crucial to ensure a smooth tournament. Any decision regarding venue changes will have significant implications for scheduling, broadcasting, logistics, and team preparations.

Cricket fans and stakeholders worldwide will closely monitor developments as negotiations continue.