Concerns Raised Over Bangladesh's Participation in T20 World Cup in India
Bangladesh's Security Concerns for T20 World Cup
Dhaka (Bangladesh), January 12: Asif Nazrul, the Youth and Sports Adviser of Bangladesh, has expressed doubts about the feasibility of the T20 World Cup being held in India, citing a letter from the International Cricket Council (ICC) security team, according to reports from a state news agency.
According to ICC officials, independent evaluations conducted by recognized security experts indicate that there are no significant barriers preventing Bangladesh from participating in the T20 World Cup matches scheduled in India. The overall security assessment for the tournament is categorized as low to moderate, aligning with the standards of many major international sporting events.
During a press conference at the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) Bhaban, Nazrul highlighted three key security concerns mentioned in the ICC's letter regarding the safety of the Bangladesh cricket team in India.
He noted that the security risks could escalate if Mustafizur Rahman is part of the team, if fans wear the national jersey, and as the election date approaches, which could heighten security threats.
Nazrul stated that these observations from the security team have clearly indicated that the conditions are not suitable for Bangladesh to compete in the T20 World Cup in India.
He remarked, "Expecting us to form a cricket team without our top bowler, while our fans cannot wear their national colors, and postponing our national elections for cricket is an absurd and unreasonable expectation."
He further emphasized that cricket should not be monopolized and that the outcome of the game should not be dictated by market dynamics. Nazrul insisted that if the ICC is genuinely a global body, it should allow Bangladesh to play the T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka, rejecting any compromises on this matter.
ICC representatives clarified that their independent assessments did not reveal any direct threats to the Bangladesh team, its officials, or the venues in India.
They assessed the risks associated with Bangladesh's matches in Kolkata and Mumbai as low to moderate, with no unmanageable risks identified, thanks to established security protocols.
ICC officials acknowledged the recent public discussions regarding Bangladesh's participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, including selective mentions of the security risk assessments.
They assured that the security plan for the T20 World Cup 2026 is under constant review, with consultations involving all participating members, including the Bangladesh Cricket Board, to enhance security measures as needed.
It is crucial to note that the ICC's independent evaluations do not suggest that Bangladesh cannot play its scheduled matches in India, according to a source.
The ICC maintains confidence in the security arrangements being developed in collaboration with the BCCI and local authorities, who have a solid history of successfully hosting major international sporting events.
The ICC's stance remains firm, with the match schedule finalized and published, expecting all teams to fulfill their obligations under the Terms of Participation. The ICC will continue to engage with stakeholders transparently and collaboratively to ensure the tournament's safety and integrity.
The T20 World Cup is set to commence on February 7, with Bangladesh kicking off their campaign against two-time champions West Indies at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Following this match, Bangladesh will face Italy on February 9 at the same venue, then take on the 2022 T20 World Cup champions, England, before concluding their group stage against Nepal on February 17.