New Delhi: The ICC has been forced into urgent contingency planning after Bangladesh sought a late change of venues for the T20 World Cup 2026, throwing the tournament into uncertainty barely a month before its scheduled start on February 7. The championship, jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka, now faces potential rescheduling challenges following heightened diplomatic tensions between India and Bangladesh.
The situation escalated after the Board of Control for Cricket in India terminated the IPL contract of Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman, a move that reportedly stemmed from deteriorating geopolitical relations. The decision triggered a sharp reaction from Bangladesh’s interim administration, which viewed the development as an affront to the country’s cricketing interests. In response, Bangladesh authorities instructed their cricket board to immediately seek alternative venues for the national team’s World Cup fixtures.
Consequently, Bangladesh formally requested that all of its matches be shifted from India to Sri Lanka, citing concerns over player safety and security. The original schedule had placed Bangladesh in Kolkata for three group stage games, with a final group match slated in Mumbai. These venues were chosen for logistical convenience, but the sudden request has forced organisers to explore new options on extremely short notice.
Tournament planners are now racing to identify suitable stadiums, accommodation, and travel arrangements in Sri Lanka, a task made more complex by the proximity of the tournament’s opening. The need to rework match dates, broadcast commitments, and operational planning has added to the growing pressure on the ICC leadership.
Bangladesh’s leadership has taken a firm public stance, making it clear that the national team cannot be expected to compete in an environment where its players feel unwelcome or unsafe. Officials have maintained that respect for players and national dignity is non-negotiable, linking the venue request directly to recent developments involving Bangladeshi cricketers in India.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding venues, Bangladesh has proceeded with its cricketing preparations and confirmed a 15 member squad for the tournament, to be led by Litton Das. This move signals the board’s intent to remain competitive while awaiting a final decision from tournament organisers.
With the clock ticking, the ICC faces a significant test of crisis management. How swiftly and effectively it resolves the impasse will be crucial not only for the smooth conduct of the T20 World Cup, but also for preserving confidence in the global governance of the sport.
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