India and Bangladesh U19 Match Highlights Tensions Ahead of T20 World Cup

The recent U19 World Cup match between India and Bangladesh was overshadowed by tensions stemming from violence against minorities in Bangladesh. The absence of a handshake during the toss highlighted these strained relations. The Bangladesh Cricket Board has requested the ICC to relocate matches due to safety concerns. However, independent security assessments indicate that the risks are manageable, allowing Bangladesh to proceed with their scheduled T20 World Cup matches in India. The tournament begins on February 7, with Bangladesh facing West Indies in their opening game.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 17, 2026, 18:55 IST

U19 World Cup Match Overview

In the ongoing ICC Under 19 World Cup 2026, the group-stage match between India U19 and Bangladesh U19 on Saturday was marked by the absence of the traditional handshake during the toss. Indian captain Ayush Mhatre represented his team, while Bangladesh's vice-captain Zawad Abrar stood in for his side. This match is India's second in the tournament, whereas it marks the first appearance for Bangladesh.

Tensions Between India and Bangladesh

Recent tensions have emerged between India and Bangladesh, primarily due to incidents of violence against minorities in Bangladesh. In light of these concerns, the Bangladesh Cricket Board has requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) to consider relocating its matches outside of India, citing player safety and security as paramount. This request followed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) asking Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release pacer Mustafizur from their IPL 2026 roster amid ongoing issues affecting Hindus in Bangladesh.

ICC's Security Assessment

According to ICC sources, independent security evaluations conducted by recognized experts have determined that there are no significant threats preventing Bangladesh from participating in the T20 World Cup matches scheduled in India. The overall security risk for the tournament has been classified as low to moderate, aligning with the standards of many major global sporting events.

These assessments did not reveal any specific threats to the Bangladesh team, its officials, or the venues in India. The risk associated with Bangladesh's matches in Kolkata and Mumbai is deemed manageable through established security protocols.

ICC's Commitment to Security

The ICC has acknowledged recent public discussions regarding Bangladesh's participation in the T20 World Cup 2026, particularly concerning the security risk assessments. They emphasized that the security plan for the tournament is continuously reviewed, with input from participating members, including the Bangladesh Cricket Board.

A source stated, "It is crucial to clarify that the ICC's independent risk assessments do not indicate that Bangladesh cannot play its scheduled matches in India." The ICC maintains confidence in the security measures being developed in collaboration with the BCCI and local authorities, who have a strong history of successfully managing major international sporting events.

Bangladesh's T20 World Cup Fixtures

The T20 World Cup is set to commence on February 7. Bangladesh will kick off their campaign against two-time champions West Indies at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Following this match, they will face Italy on February 9 at the same venue, then take on the 2022 T20 World Cup champions, England, also in Kolkata, and conclude their group-stage matches against Nepal on February 17.