ICC Assesses Security Risk for T20 World Cup as Low to Moderate
ICC: Security Risk for T20 World Cup 'Low to Moderate'
According to sources from the ICC, independent evaluations conducted by recognized security experts indicate that there are no significant barriers preventing Bangladesh from participating in the upcoming T20 World Cup matches in India. The overall security risk for the tournament has been classified as low to moderate, aligning with the standards of many major international sporting events.
No Direct Threats Identified
The assessments revealed no specific or immediate threats directed at the Bangladesh team, its officials, or the venues in India. The risk associated with Bangladesh's matches scheduled in Kolkata and Mumbai is considered manageable through established security protocols.
Bangladesh Official's Contrasting View
Despite the ICC's findings, public statements from Bangladesh officials have raised concerns about the team's participation in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. A report from a Bangladeshi publication quoted Sports Adviser Asif Nazrul, who expressed skepticism about the feasibility of the team traveling to India following a letter from the ICC security team.
ICC Reaffirms Stance, Expects Participation
The ICC has reiterated that the security plan for the T20 World Cup is under constant review, with ongoing consultations involving participating members, including the Bangladesh Cricket Board. The ICC remains receptive to constructive feedback to enhance security measures. A source emphasized that the independent assessments do not suggest that Bangladesh cannot participate in their scheduled matches in India.
Confidence in Security Arrangements
The ICC has expressed full 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. The match schedule has been finalized, and the ICC anticipates that all teams will fulfill their commitments under the Terms of Participation.
Details of Bangladesh's Concerns
Asif Nazrul criticized the ICC's security team's statement, claiming it demonstrates that conditions are unsuitable for the Bangladesh cricket team to compete in the T20 World Cup in India. He highlighted the absurdity of expecting the team to play without key players or under challenging circumstances, especially with the Bangladesh elections approaching. The Bangladesh Cricket Board is currently awaiting a response from the ICC regarding the possibility of relocating their matches to Sri Lanka.
Bangladesh's T20 World Cup Schedule
The T20 World Cup is set to commence on February 7. Bangladesh will kick off their campaign against the 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 reigning T20 World Cup champions, England, before concluding their group-stage matches against Nepal on February 17.