Bangladesh Reiterates Refusal to Travel to India for T20 World Cup After ICC Meeting
Bangladesh has once again made its position clear regarding the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. In a recent meeting with the International Cricket Council (ICC), the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) firmly repeated its refusal to travel to India for the tournament, citing serious security concerns.
The development comes just weeks before the T20 World Cup is scheduled to begin on February 7, with Bangladesh set to play all four of its group matches on Indian soil.
Bangladesh Stands Firm on Its Decision
According to an official statement released by the BCB on Tuesday, the board reiterated its request during a video conference with ICC officials. The board asked the ICC to consider relocating Bangladesh’s matches to a neutral venue, preferably Sri Lanka.
“The BCB reaffirmed its position regarding the decision not to travel to India, citing security concerns,” the statement said.
The ICC, during the meeting, reportedly reminded Bangladesh that the tournament schedule had already been finalized and urged the board to reconsider its stance. However, the BCB made it clear that its position remains unchanged.
What Triggered the Decision?
Bangladesh first announced its decision on January 4, shortly after Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman was released by his Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise. The incident occurred amid rising political and diplomatic tensions between India and Bangladesh.
Following this, the BCB formally requested the ICC to move its matches out of India, expressing concerns over the safety of players and team officials.
Security Concerns Remain the Main Issue
The BCB emphasized that its decision is not political, but purely based on the safety and well-being of its players, coaching staff, and officials.
The board stated that while discussions with the ICC are still ongoing, player security remains the top priority.
“BCB remains committed to safeguarding the well-being of its players, officials and staff,” the statement added.
So far, the ICC has not issued any official response to Bangladesh’s latest remarks.
Also read:Pakistan Reportedly Offer to Host 2026 T20 World Cup Matches for Bangladesh
Tournament Schedule at Risk?
The T20 World Cup is scheduled to kick off on February 7, and Bangladesh is placed in the group stage with matches planned across various venues in India.
If the ICC agrees to relocate Bangladesh’s matches, it could lead to significant changes in the tournament schedule, venue arrangements, and broadcasting logistics.
Sri Lanka has been mentioned as the most likely alternative venue, as it has hosted multiple ICC events in the past and is considered a neutral and safe option.
Bangladesh’s Performance in T20 World Cups
Bangladesh, currently ranked ninth in the ICC T20 rankings, has participated in all nine editions of the T20 World Cup so far. However, the team has never reached the semi-finals of the tournament.
Under the leadership of Litton Das, Bangladesh was hoping to improve its record in the upcoming edition. But the ongoing uncertainty over venues has added pressure ahead of the tournament.
Political Tensions Behind the Scenes
Relations between India and Bangladesh have been strained since 2024, following a mass uprising in Dhaka that led to the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who was considered a close ally of New Delhi.
India’s foreign ministry recently criticized what it described as “unremitting hostility against minorities” in Bangladesh.
In response, Bangladesh’s interim leader and Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus accused India of exaggerating the scale of violence, further deepening tensions between the two neighbors.
Although cricket boards generally avoid political involvement, the current situation highlights how geopolitical issues can impact international sports events.
What Happens Next?
The ICC now faces a difficult decision. On one hand, it wants to maintain the integrity and schedule of a major global tournament. On the other hand, it must address the security concerns raised by a full ICC member nation.
Sources suggest that further meetings may take place in the coming days to explore possible compromises, including:
- Relocating Bangladesh matches to Sri Lanka
- Offering additional security assurances
- Adjusting match schedules
Until a final decision is made, uncertainty remains around Bangladesh’s participation in India-hosted matches.
FAQs – Bangladesh & T20 World Cup 2026
❓ Why is Bangladesh refusing to travel to India?
Bangladesh has cited security concerns for its players and officials due to rising political tensions between the two countries.
❓ When did Bangladesh announce this decision?
The decision was announced on January 4, 2026.
❓ Has the ICC responded officially?
No, the ICC has not yet released an official statement on the matter.
❓ Where does Bangladesh want to play its matches?
Bangladesh has formally requested that its matches be moved to Sri Lanka.
❓ Will Bangladesh withdraw from the T20 World Cup?
As of now, Bangladesh has not withdrawn from the tournament. Talks with the ICC are still ongoing.
Also read:Pakistan Captain Achieves Rare T20I Record
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