New Delhi: The International Cricket Council (ICC) is preparing to engage with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) regarding its decision not to send the national cricket team to India for the T20 World Cup 2026, according to a report from ESPNCricinfo.
The ICC plans to hold discussions with the BCB on Tuesday, likely urging them to participate in the league stage matches in India. Bangladesh is scheduled to play four league-stage matches, including three in Kolkata against West Indies (February 7), Italy (February 9), and England (February 14), as well as a match against Nepal in Mumbai on February 17.
BCB’s Travel Refusal
The BCB announced on January 4 that it would not travel to India for the T20 World Cup, citing advice from the Bangladesh government. In response, the Board formally requested the ICC consider relocating their matches to a different venue outside India. This decision followed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) instructing Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman.
The BCB’s statement emphasized that after assessing the current situation and growing concerns about the safety and security of the Bangladesh team in India, along with advice from the government, the Board decided against travel. “The BCB looks forward to the ICC’s understanding and an urgent response regarding this matter,” it stated.
It is worth noting that the Bangladesh government has not issued any travel advisory or restrictions for its citizens traveling to or residing in India.
ICC’s Response Pending
As of now, the ICC has not publicly commented on the matter. ICC Chairman Jay Shah was in discussions at the BCCI headquarters in Mumbai yesterday to determine the next steps.
Ban on IPL Telecast in Bangladesh
Additionally, the Bangladesh government has imposed an indefinite ban on the telecast and promotion of the Indian Premier League (IPL). This decision came after Mustafizur Rahman was excluded from the KKR squad for the upcoming IPL season, a move that has upset many in Bangladesh. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting stated that the decision by the BCCI to exclude Rahman has “deeply hurt, saddened, and angered the people of Bangladesh,” and announced that all IPL matches will remain suspended from broadcast in the country until further notice.
Release of Mustafizur by KKR
On January 3, KKR confirmed the release of Mustafizur based on instructions from the BCCI, stating that the process followed due procedure and consultation. The release occurred amid concerns regarding the current political climate in Bangladesh, including recent violent incidents affecting the Hindu community since the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
