NEW DELHI: Bangladesh’s chances of playing in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 in India have become uncertain after the International Cricket Council (ICC) officially rejected the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s (BCB) request to move their matches to Sri Lanka.
The BCB had raised concerns about player safety and suggested shifting the games. However, in a recent ICC board meeting, almost all members voted against Bangladesh’s proposal. Only two members supported the request, including a last-minute backing from the Pakistan Cricket Board, which could not change the outcome.
Urgent Talks in Bangladesh
Following the ICC’s decision, the Bangladesh government stepped in to discuss the next steps. Asif Nazrul, the government’s sports advisor, is scheduled to meet the players on Thursday, January 21, at Hotel InterContinental in Dhaka.
The purpose of the meeting is to update the squad on the current situation and get their opinions. Reports suggest that the players were not consulted initially, causing confusion and concern among the team members.
Players and Board Caught in a Dilemma
Bangladesh captain Litton Kumar Das had earlier revealed that the players were not asked about the proposed changes. The ICC’s rejection has now put the players in a difficult position—they want to participate in the World Cup, but safety concerns remain.
BCB president Aminul Islam emphasized the dilemma, saying the board tried to explain their reasoning to the ICC before the vote. He also shared that the board had considered alternative solutions, such as moving matches to Sri Lanka or swapping groups with Ireland or Zimbabwe, but these options were not accepted.
ICC Issues 24-Hour Ultimatum
After rejecting the request, the ICC has issued an ultimatum to Bangladesh. The board now has 24 hours to confirm whether the team will travel to India for the T20 World Cup, which starts on February 7.
If Bangladesh fails to respond or refuses to play, they may be replaced in the tournament, with Scotland reportedly set to take their place in Group C.
Safety Concerns vs. Cricketing Ambitions
Aminul Islam highlighted the core issue: the players want to play, and the government supports participation, but security concerns in India remain a major worry. The board’s hesitation reflects the difficulty of balancing safety with sporting ambitions.
Despite the setback, some BCB officials remain hopeful that the ICC might reconsider, leaving a small window for negotiation.
What Lies Ahead for Bangladesh?
With the deadline approaching, the BCB must quickly decide whether to send the team to India. Players and officials will need to weigh risks and priorities carefully. Meanwhile, cricket fans in Bangladesh and around the world are watching closely, as the outcome could influence the group composition and tournament dynamics.
If Bangladesh withdraws, it could also set a precedent for how cricket boards handle safety concerns in future ICC events.
Conclusion
Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup journey is at a crossroads. The ICC’s rejection and the 24-hour ultimatum have created a tense situation for players, officials, and fans. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether Bangladesh competes in the tournament or is replaced, while safety and security remain the top priority.
FAQs
What was Bangladesh’s request to the ICC?
Bangladesh asked the ICC to move their T20 World Cup matches from India to Sri Lanka due to safety concerns.
Why did the ICC reject Bangladesh’s request?
In a board meeting, almost all ICC members voted against the proposal. Only two members supported it, which was not enough to approve the request.
What is the deadline given by ICC to Bangladesh?
The ICC has given Bangladesh 24 hours to confirm if they will travel to India for the T20 World Cup.
What are the possible alternatives for Bangladesh?
Bangladesh had proposed shifting matches to Sri Lanka or swapping groups with Ireland or Zimbabwe, but these were not accepted by the ICC or the other boards.
What could happen if Bangladesh refuses to play?
If Bangladesh does not participate, they may be replaced by Scotland in Group C, and the ICC could take further decisions regarding tournament arrangements.