The ICC has said that the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) will not face any punishment despite refusing to play the 2026 T20 World Cup matches in India. Notably, the global body also confirmed that Bangladesh will be given an ICC schedule before co-hosting the 2031 Men’s ODI World Cup with India.
Bangladesh were eliminated from the ongoing World Cup as their government did not allow the team to travel to India for the tournament. The Bangladesh Cricket Board requested that their matches be moved to Sri Lanka, but the ICC rejected the proposal and chose Scotland in their place for the tournament.
ICC announces no sanctions on Bangladesh for staying out of T20 World Cup
On Monday, the ICC confirmed that it will not take any action against Bangladesh for refusing to play T20 World Cup matches in India. The decision was taken after discussions between the BCB and the Pakistan Cricket Board, who had earlier threatened to boycott the match against India.
“It has been agreed that no financial, sporting or administrative penalty will be imposed on the Bangladesh Cricket Board in relation to the ongoing matter,” the ICC said in a statement.
“It is acknowledged that the BCB retains the right to approach the Dispute Resolution Committee (DRC) if it wishes to do so. This right exists and remains intact under the current ICC rules.
“The ICC’s approach is guided by the principles of neutrality and impartiality and reflects the shared objective of facilitative support rather than punishment.
Bangladesh to host ICC event ahead of 2031 World Cup
The ICC said Bangladesh will host a major ICC tournament between 2028 and 2031. Notably, the global body said the hosting plan is subject to its standard approval process, timelines and operational conditions.
“As part of this understanding, an agreement has been reached that Bangladesh will host an ICC event prior to the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2031, subject to normal ICC hosting procedures, timelines and operational requirements.”
“This reflects confidence in Bangladesh’s ability as a host and reinforces the ICC’s commitment to providing meaningful hosting opportunities across its membership to develop cricket in the country.”
ICC reaffirms commitment to dialogue, unity and integrity of the game
The Pakistan Cricket Board had said that the team will participate in the tournament but will not play its group match against India on February 15 in Colombo.
The ICC, PCB, BCB and other member boards later agreed to keep discussions open and work together in a collaborative manner. All parties said that the common objective of this understanding is to protect the integrity of cricket and maintain unity in the global cricket community.
“The ICC, PCB and BCB, along with other members, are committed to continued dialogue, collaboration and constructive engagement in the best interests of the game. All stakeholders acknowledge that the spirit of this understanding is to protect the integrity of the game and maintain unity within the cricket fraternity.”
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