ICC Has Not Approached Scotland as Bangladesh T20 World Cup Replacement: Report
There are currently no discussions between the International Cricket Council and Scotland about replacing Bangladesh in next month's men's T20 World Cup. A BBC report confirms this position remains clear for now. However, Scottish players stand ready if a call ever arrives.
Bangladesh's Refusal to Travel
Bangladesh has officially informed the ICC they will not travel to India for the tournament. They cite concerns over political tensions between the two nations. The Bangladesh Cricket Board has requested their matches move to another venue instead.
Scotland's Position as Potential Replacement
Scotland currently holds the highest ranking among teams not participating in the T20 World Cup. This status places them as the logical replacement should Bangladesh withdraw completely. Yet, the BBC report indicates the ICC has made no contact with Cricket Scotland regarding this possibility.
Scottish officials also show no plans to approach the ICC themselves. They express respect for the Bangladesh Cricket Board as their reason for staying quiet.
Scotland's Recent Cricket Journey
Scotland missed qualification for the 2026 T20 World Cup after finishing fourth in last summer's Europe Qualifier. The Netherlands and Italy secured the two available spots from that event. In ICC T20 rankings, Scotland sits at 14th position globally.
With players returning to training, Scotland prepares for a one-day tri-series against Namibia and Oman in March. Their focus remains on immediate commitments rather than World Cup speculation.
Unclear Replacement Protocol
Reports suggest a final decision about Bangladesh's participation could emerge soon. The ICC has not clarified how it would select a replacement team if one withdraws. In 2009, when Zimbabwe pulled out of the T20 World Cup, Scotland stepped in as their replacement. That old system no longer applies clearly due to modern regional qualification requirements.
Bangladesh's Account of ICC Meeting
The BCB has already denied reports about a January 21 deadline from the ICC. Director Amzad Hossain explained what actually happened during talks with ICC representatives.
"Last Saturday, January 17, an ICC representative came. A meeting was held with a delegation from our Cricket Board. There, we clearly conveyed our position regarding the World Cup participation and informed them that we are unable to play at the specified venue, and we requested an alternative venue. A detailed discussion took place with their representative. At that time, they told us that they would inform the ICC about these matters and later communicate the decision to us. However, they did not mention any specific date or timeline for when they would inform us—only that they would let us know the next date. Thank you," Hossain stated.
The cricket world now watches closely as this situation develops. All eyes remain on the ICC's next move regarding tournament participation and potential team replacements.
