The International Cricket Council (ICC) has turned down a formal request from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to relocate its team's matches for the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 away from India. The global governing body stated it has received no actionable intelligence or credible security threats that would warrant such a move.
ICC's Security Assessment and Decision
According to reports, the matter was discussed in an online meeting held on Tuesday, January 6, between ICC officials and BCB representatives. The ICC informed the BCB that its security assessments do not indicate any specific or credible threat to the Bangladeshi team while playing in India. Consequently, the council sees no basis to alter the tournament's schedule or venues at this stage. While a final written communication is awaited by January 10, sources confirm the ICC's stance is firm.
Background of the BCB's Request
This development follows an emergency meeting convened by the BCB on January 4. Prompted by concerns over player safety and well-being, the board subsequently wrote to the ICC, formally asking for Bangladesh's matches to be moved outside India. The request aimed to safeguard players, officials, board members, and other stakeholders.
The trigger for this action appears to be the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) directive to Kolkata Knight Riders to release Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman. Mustafizur, who was bought for a hefty INR 9.2 crore at the recent IPL auction, was surprisingly let go. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia publicly confirmed the decision without providing an official reason, sparking controversy and a strong reaction from Bangladesh.
Tournament Schedule and Escalating Tensions
Bangladesh is slated to play three Group C matches in Kolkata against the West Indies (February 7), Italy (February 9), and England (February 14). Their final group game is against Nepal in Mumbai on February 17. The 20-team tournament begins on February 7 across India and Sri Lanka, culminating in the final on March 8.
In response to Mustafizur's IPL exit, the BCB has banned the broadcast of the IPL in Bangladesh. Adding another layer to the diplomatic standoff, Mustafizur Rahman is now set to feature in the Pakistan Super League, as confirmed by the Pakistan Cricket Board.
Conflicting Reports and Official Silence
There are conflicting accounts regarding the tone of the ICC's communication. While some reports suggested the ICC gave Bangladesh an ultimatum to play in India or risk forfeiting points, the BCB has denied receiving any such threat. Neither the ICC nor the BCCI has issued an official statement following the crucial meeting, leaving the cricketing world awaiting formal clarity as the tournament draws near.
