The Indian government is closely monitoring the situation regarding Bangladesh's participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup, maintaining daily contact with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Official sources indicate that authorities will respond to developments "as and when desired", adhering to a policy of welcoming all participating nations in line with the Olympic charter.
Ball in Bangladesh's Court
Sources emphasized that any decision by Bangladesh to withdraw from the tournament or relocate its matches would be "entirely its own". They clarified that the first call must be taken by Dhaka. Indian authorities will formulate their reaction only after the Bangladesh government makes its final stand clear.
This stance is distinct from the policy towards Pakistan. India maintains a specific sports policy for Pakistan, refusing bilateral sporting engagements anywhere in the world and prohibiting teams from traveling to each other's nations for one-on-one events. For multilateral events like the T20 World Cup, the BCCI and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) operate on an understanding to play at neutral venues.
Security Assurances and BCB's Persistent Concerns
Regarding the Bangladesh cricket team, sources assured that full security measures will be in place. The government's consistent position is to welcome every nation coming to India to participate. "The ball is in their court whether they want to come or not. The decision is entirely theirs," sources added.
However, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has escalated its concerns. As reported earlier and confirmed by sources close to the board, the BCB has sent a second communication to the International Cricket Council (ICC). This letter, sent following discussions with sports ministry advisor Asif Nazrul, details specific security concerns and reiterates the demand to shift Bangladesh's matches to Sri Lanka.
The ICC had sought clarity on the areas of concern from the BCB, which the latest communication addresses. Despite this, the ICC has not given any indication that it will agree to change venues for the tournament.
Awaiting a Final Decision
The situation remains in flux, with the Indian government and the BCCI tracking day-to-day developments. The core principle guiding India's approach is its established sports policy of inclusivity for multilateral events, excluding the specific caveat for Pakistan. The next move now awaits a definitive decision from the Bangladesh government, after which Indian authorities will craft their formal response.
