The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has reaffirmed its decision to not play its T20 World Cup matches in India, citing ongoing security concerns for players, officials, and staff. This announcement follows a recent video conference with the International Cricket Council (ICC), during which the BCB reiterated its request for the ICC to relocate Bangladesh’s fixtures outside India.

“The BCB reaffirmed its position regarding the decision not to travel to India, citing security concerns,” the board said in an official statement on Tuesday.
“The board also reiterated its request for the ICC to consider relocating Bangladesh’s matches outside India.”

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Background: Bangladesh’s Safety Concerns

Bangladesh’s firm stance comes amid heightened political tensions between Bangladesh and India, which have spilled into the cricketing sphere. The matter gained international attention after Mustafizur Rahman, Bangladesh’s star left-arm fast bowler, was instructed to leave his Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise, the Kolkata Knight Riders, following directives from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

Although the BCCI did not provide a formal explanation for Mustafizur’s removal, reports suggest that it is linked to the ongoing political climate between the two nations. In response, the BCB formally requested that the ICC shift its T20 World Cup fixtures to neutral venues, citing the well-being and security of its players as the primary concern.

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ICC Response and Ongoing Discussions

The ICC reminded Bangladesh that the tournament itinerary has already been published and requested that the BCB reconsider its decision. However, the BCB emphasized that player safety remains the top priority.

“Both parties agreed that discussions will continue to explore possible solutions. The BCB remains committed to safeguarding the well-being of its players, officials, and staff while engaging constructively with the ICC to address the matter,” the board confirmed.

The ICC has expressed its willingness to discuss potential solutions, but no alternative venues have been officially announced as of now.

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T20 World Cup 2026: Scheduled Matches

The 2026 ICC T20 World Cup is being co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8. Bangladesh is currently scheduled to play three group stage matches in Kolkata and one match in Mumbai. With the BCB’s request, these matches may need to be relocated to ensure the team’s participation under safe conditions.

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Bangladesh’s Broader Response to IPL Decisions

Following the removal of Mustafizur Rahman from the IPL squad, Bangladesh took additional steps to express its discontent. Earlier this month, the Bangladesh Ministry of Information and Broadcasting banned IPL broadcasts across the country.

The ministry said the ban was implemented “in public interest,” noting that the BCCI’s decision caused significant distress among the people of Bangladesh.

This move underscores how cricket continues to intersect with diplomacy and politics in South Asia, with sporting decisions carrying social and national implications.

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Key Players and Fixtures Affected

• Mustafizur Rahman – Left-arm pacer removed from Kolkata Knight Riders IPL squad; central to Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup plans.
• Bangladesh’s scheduled matches in India – 3 in Kolkata, 1 in Mumbai.
• Potential impact on ICC scheduling – Relocation may be required if safety concerns remain unresolved.

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Looking Ahead: Safety and Cricket Diplomacy

The situation highlights the challenges international cricket faces when political tensions overlap with sporting events. Bangladesh’s insistence on player safety sets a precedent for how national boards may respond to geopolitical concerns affecting international tournaments.

Discussions between the BCB and ICC are ongoing, with the cricketing world watching closely for updates on whether Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup matches will be moved to a neutral venue.