Play in India or Lose World Cup: ICC to BCB
The ICC has refused to make changes to the tournament schedule. Bangladesh remain in Group C along with Italy, New Zealand, West Indies and Nepal.
As per the current plan, Bangladesh are scheduled to open their campaign against the West Indies on February 7 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. They will play two more group matches at the same venue before their final group game at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium.
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Despite several rounds of talks over the past three weeks, the two sides have not reached a resolution, even as the opening match date draws closer.
Group swap ruled out, security assurances offered
In Saturday’s meeting, the ICC also rejected a proposal to swap Bangladesh with Ireland. Such a move would have shifted Bangladesh to Group B and allowed the team to play its early matches in Sri Lanka.
ICC officials assured the BCB that there is no specific security threat to the Bangladesh team in India. The governing body referred to independent risk assessments conducted by internationally recognised security experts.
Scotland may play if Bangladesh pulls out
As per the report quoting sources familiar with the discussions, the final call now rests with the BCB. If the board decides not to send the team to India, the ICC is expected to announce a replacement. Based on current rankings, Scotland is seen as the most likely option.
The overall security risk for the tournament in India has been assessed as low to moderate, similar to other major global sporting events. The assessments reportedly found no direct threat to Bangladesh players, officials or venues in Kolkata and Mumbai, and said the identified risks can be managed through standard security measures, the report said.
BCB open to World Cup, hesitant about India travel
During discussions with the ICC, the BCB said it is willing to play in the T20 World Cup but prefers that its matches be held outside India. The board raised concerns over the safety and security of its players amid political tensions between India and Bangladesh.
The issue drew wider attention after Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman was released from Kolkata Knight Riders’ IPL 2026 squad following instructions from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). After that development, the BCB stepped up its request to move Bangladesh’s World Cup matches out of India.