ICC Asks Bangladesh to Reconsider Decision Regarding T20 World Cup Venue
The BCB had earlier clarified that they do not want to come to India for the T20 World Cup 2026 due to security reasons and ongoing political tensions between the two nations.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) announced on January 13 that the International Cricket Council (ICC) has requested them to reconsider their decision regarding the team’s participation in the T20 World Cup 2026.
This development reportedly took place during an important video conference between the BCB and the ICC authorities on Tuesday.
However, Bangladesh's participation still remains in question.
The World Cup Venue Dispute
According to the latest reports, the BCB authorities asked ICC to relocate their venues from India to co-hosts Sri Lanka. The reason behind this is said to be security issues. The discussion also comes days after the BCCI directed the IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders to release Bangladesh’s player Mustafizur Rahman from their squad. All these changes happened amid the prevailing political tensions between India and Bangladesh.
BCB was represented by its president Aminul Islam, vice- presidents Shakawath Hossain, and Faruque Ahmed in the video conference. They were also joined by Nazmul Abedin, the director and chairman of cricket operations committee and CEO Nizam Uddin Chowdhury.
BCB’s Official Statement
In an official statement released after the discussion, the BCB said, “During the discussions, the BCB reaffirmed its position regarding the decision not to travel to India, citing security concerns. The Board also reiterated its request for the ICC to consider relocating Bangladesh's matches outside India.”
They added, “While the ICC highlighted that the tournament itinerary has already been announced and requested the BCB to reconsider its stance, the Board's position remains unchanged. Both parties agreed that discussions will continue to explore possible solutions.”
The BCB also said, “The BCB remains committed to safeguarding the well-being of its players, officials and staff while engaging constructively with the ICC to address the matter.”
Earlier Discussions
It was insisted multiple times earlier that the Bangladesh team is not ready to visit India to play the World Cup. This was specifically insisted by Asif Nazrul, sports advisor.
Meanwhile, BCB is still awaiting a positive outcome. Its vice–resident, Shakhawat Hossain says, "We are firm in the position we have taken (regarding venue relocation). We will not change our stance even by an inch. We are not going to India.”
They also added that they are firm in their position.
