The uncertainty surrounding Bangladesh’s participation in the upcoming 2026 T20 World Cup has not ended. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has requested the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to reconsider its stance of not wanting to play at a venue in India due to security concerns. However, the BCB has reiterated its firm stance on the matter.
The matter was discussed in a virtual meeting held between the ICC and the BCB on Tuesday afternoon (January 13). The BCB was represented by Board President Aminul Islam, Vice-Presidents Shakhawat Hossain and Faruk Ahmed, Cricket Administration Department Chairman Nazmul Abedin and Chief Executive Officer Nizam Uddin Chowdhury.
The BCB press release said that the board has clearly stated that they are not willing to play in India due to security concerns and have reiterated their demand for Bangladesh’s matches to be held outside India. The ICC said that the BCB has been requested to reconsider its position as the tournament schedule has already been published. However, the BCB said that there has been no change in its current position.
While both sides reportedly agreed to find a solution through negotiations, the BCB reiterated that the safety of players, officials and staff is its top priority.
According to the current schedule, all four of Bangladesh’s group stage matches are scheduled to be held in India. However, the BCB has been demanding a change of venue since the political tensions between the two countries and the release of Mustafizur Rahman from Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL. Youth and Sports Advisor Asif Nazrul has also said that Bangladesh is not ready to go to India to play the World Cup in the current situation.
Overall, the uncertainty over Bangladesh’s participation in the World Cup has not yet been resolved due to the BCB’s stubborn stance despite the ICC’s request.