ICC stands firm: No venue change for Bangladesh's T20 World Cup matches in India

Dhaka (The Uttam Hindu) : The Bangladesh Cricket Board has stated that the ICC has responded to the Bangladesh cricket team's request to not play the T20 World Cup matches in India and to shift the matches to Sri Lanka due to security reasons. The board stated that the ICC will ensure Bangladesh's participation in the T20 World Cup, starting February 7, is uninterrupted and will provide its full support. However, the request to relocate the matches has not yet been accepted.

The board said the ICC has agreed to work closely with the Bangladesh Cricket Board to address the urgent issues and consider their input as part of the security arrangements. In its statement, the BCB said, "The Bangladesh Cricket Board has received a response from the ICC regarding the board's concerns regarding the security of the Bangladesh national cricket team in India for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, including a request to relocate the team's matches. The ICC reiterates its commitment to ensuring the Bangladesh team's full and uninterrupted participation in the tournament. The ICC has expressed its willingness to work closely with the BCB to address the concerns raised and has assured that the board's input will be welcomed and considered in a detailed security plan for the event."

The BCB has dismissed reports of an ultimatum issued by the ICC to the BCB as baseless. The BCB stated, "The Board will continue to engage professionally with the ICC and the relevant organizers to reach an amicable and workable conclusion that ensures the team's smooth and successful participation in the T20 World Cup 2026. The Bangladesh Cricket Board is fully committed to the safety and security of the Bangladesh National Cricket Team." The Bangladesh cricket team has been placed in Group C for the World Cup along with West Indies, Italy, England, and Nepal. As per the pre-scheduled schedule, Bangladesh will play its first three group stage matches against West Indies on February 7, Italy on February 9, and England on February 14 in Kolkata. The fourth and final match is against Nepal on February 17 in Mumbai.