Bangladesh Cricket Board Engages ICC Over Security Concerns for T20 World Cup 2026
BCB Receives ICC's Assurance on Team Safety
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has announced that it has received feedback from the International Cricket Council (ICC) regarding its concerns about the safety and security of the Bangladesh National Cricket Team during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 in India. This includes a request to relocate the team's matches.
In its response, the ICC reaffirmed its dedication to ensuring that the Bangladesh team can participate fully and without interruption in the tournament. The ICC expressed its readiness to collaborate closely with the BCB to address the raised concerns and assured that the Board's suggestions would be taken into account during the detailed security planning for the event.
BCB Clarifies Misunderstandings and Seeks Solutions
The BCB has addressed media reports claiming that it received an ultimatum regarding these issues. The Board firmly stated that such assertions are entirely false and do not accurately represent the communication received from the ICC.
The BCB emphasized its commitment to maintaining a constructive dialogue with the ICC and relevant event authorities, aiming to find a practical solution that guarantees the team's successful participation in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. The safety and well-being of the Bangladesh National Cricket Team remain the Board's top priority.
Background: Mustafizur Rahman's IPL Situation
Previously, the BCB had communicated its decision to refrain from playing in India due to security issues, anticipating a favorable response from the ICC. This decision followed the expulsion of Bangladesh player Mustafizur Rahman from the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders, the only Bangladeshi cricketer in the league. This action was taken in response to a directive from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) concerning reported atrocities against minorities in Bangladesh.
Bangladesh's Upcoming Matches in the T20 World Cup
Bangladesh is set to kick off its T20 World Cup 2026 journey on February 7 against the two-time champions, West Indies, at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Following this match, Bangladesh will compete against Italy on February 9 at the same venue, and then face the reigning T20 World Cup champions, England, also in Kolkata. After their match against England, the team will head to Mumbai to take on Nepal at Wankhede Stadium.
The World Cup will commence on February 7 with a match between Pakistan and the Netherlands in Colombo.