Bangladesh Cricket Board Seeks Security Assurance for T20 World Cup in India

BCB Engages with ICC Over Security Concerns

Dhaka: On Wednesday, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) announced that the International Cricket Council (ICC) is prepared to collaborate closely to address the security issues related to the Bangladesh team's participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup in India. However, the BCB's request to change the venue for their matches has not yet been granted.

The T20 World Cup is set to commence on February 7, with Bangladesh scheduled to play four matches in Kolkata and Mumbai.

In a statement, the BCB confirmed that they have received feedback from the ICC regarding their concerns about the safety of the Bangladesh National Cricket Team during the tournament, including the request to relocate their matches.

The ICC has expressed its commitment to ensuring that the Bangladesh team can participate fully and without interruption in the tournament.

Furthermore, the ICC has indicated its willingness to work alongside the BCB to address the raised concerns and has assured that the Board's input will be taken into account during the security planning for the event.

Tensions have escalated between India and Bangladesh following the removal of Bangladeshi bowler Mustafizur Rahman from the IPL, a decision reportedly made by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

While the BCCI did not provide a specific reason for this action, it is believed to be linked to increasing diplomatic strains between the two countries, particularly following incidents involving attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh.

In response to the BCCI's decision, the BCB formally requested that their four World Cup matches in India be moved to co-host Sri Lanka.

The ICC has yet to publicly respond to this request, and a planned meeting between the two organizations was also canceled.

The BCB has stated its intention to maintain a constructive dialogue with the ICC and relevant authorities in a professional manner.

The Board expressed confidence in reaching a practical solution that would ensure the smooth participation of the team in the T20 World Cup.

Placed in Group C, Bangladesh will kick off their campaign against the West Indies at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, followed by matches against defending champions England, Italy, and Nepal.

No Ultimatum from ICC

The BCB has dismissed reports suggesting that the ICC had issued an ultimatum regarding the team's participation schedule.

The BCB clarified that it has noted certain media reports claiming that the Board was given an ultimatum.

The BCB firmly stated that these claims are entirely false and do not accurately represent the communication received from the ICC.

Rahman was acquired for Rs 9.2 crore by Kolkata Knight Riders during last year's player auction in Abu Dhabi.

Following his IPL exit, he was signed by the Pakistan Super League, although the player draft for that event has yet to occur.