New Delhi: The International Cricket Council (ICC), led by Jay Shah, is set to hold a decisive meeting with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) in Bangladesh to finalise the team’s participation in the 2026 T20 World Cup. The discussions follow a video conference earlier this week in which the BCB raised security concerns over traveling to India for its scheduled matches.
The BCB has requested that Bangladesh’s fixtures be relocated outside India to ensure the safety of players, officials, and support staff. The request comes in the backdrop of political tensions in Bangladesh, including incidents affecting minorities, and a recent directive by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) asking Kolkata Knight Riders to release pacer Mustafizur Rahman from their IPL 2026 squad.
Representing the BCB in the discussions were President Aminul Islam, Vice Presidents Shakawath Hossain and Faruque Ahmed, Director and Cricket Operations Committee Chair Nazmul Abedeen, and CEO Nizam Uddin Chowdhury. Despite the ICC noting that the tournament schedule is already set, the BCB maintained its stance, emphasizing that the well-being and security of its players remain the top priority.
Both sides agreed to continue discussions to explore possible solutions before a final decision is announced. The ICC’s upcoming visit to Bangladesh is expected to be the last step in resolving the matter.
Bangladesh’s campaign in the T20 World Cup, scheduled to begin on February 7, is currently uncertain. Their opening match is set against West Indies at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, followed by fixtures against Italy on February 9, England later in the group stage, and concluding against Nepal on February 17. The final outcome of ICC-BCB talks will determine whether the team will travel to India for these matches or if alternative arrangements will be made.
The T20 World Cup 2026 represents a key event on the international calendar, and the ICC has underlined its commitment to ensuring a safe and competitive tournament while addressing the concerns raised by Bangladesh.
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