The International Cricket Council (ICC) is facing a major dilemma just weeks before the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, as Bangladesh stuck to their stance of not traveling to India for their group matches next month citing security reasons.
Bangladesh remains firm on security concerns during video conference with ICC ahead of T20 World Cup 2026
On Tuesday, January 13, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) held an urgent video conference with the ICC to discuss the team’s participation in India. The online meeting was attended by top BCB officials including president Mohammad Aminul Islam, vice-presidents Mohammad Shaqwath Hussain and Farooq Ahmed, director Nazmul Abedin and CEO Nizam Uddin Chowdhury.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board has made it clear that the safety of players and staff is their top priority and have reiterated their security concerns as they have requested the ICC to consider hosting Bangladesh’s matches outside India.
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However, the ICC reminded Bangladesh that the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 is already scheduled and asked the Bangladesh Cricket Board to reconsider its stance, but they refused, forcing both sides to find a middle ground.
BCB demanded transfer of matches
BCB said in an official media release, “During the discussion, the BCB reaffirmed its position regarding the decision not to travel to India citing security concerns. The Board also reiterated its request to the ICC to consider shifting Bangladesh’s matches outside India.
The statement further read, “While the ICC highlighted that the tournament schedule has already been announced and requested the BCB to reconsider its stance, the Board’s position remains unchanged. Both sides agreed that discussions will continue to explore possible solutions.
BCB is committed to protecting the well-being of its players, officials and staff while constructively engaging with the ICC to resolve this matter.
to be continued..