The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) confirmed on January 22 that it would not play its T20 World Cup matches in India, citing unresolved security concerns for its players, despite the ICC rejecting requests to move venues. The decision could lead to Bangladesh being replaced in the tournament.
The move follows a crucial meeting of BCB officials, national team cricketers, and interim government sports adviser Asif Nazrul. The ICC had earlier dismissed Bangladesh’s request to shift its matches to Sri Lanka, stating there was no credible security threat in India. Bangladesh was given a day to reconsider, but concerns remained unaddressed.
Speaking after discussions, Asif Nazrul accused the ICC of failing to treat Bangladesh fairly. “The ICC has not served us justice. We will not bow down. Everyone should understand what it means if Bangladesh do not play the World Cup. We cannot give up our players’ security under any circumstances,” he said.
Also read: ICC turns down plea, gives BCB a day to take a call
Nazrul cited the withdrawal of Mustafizur Rahman from the IPL after threats from political groups in India as evidence of ongoing risks. “The security risks involved in playing in India have not changed… The responsibility of security will lie with that country’s police and security agencies,” he added.
BCB vice-president Animul Islam Bulbul said the board would continue efforts to convince the ICC to reconsider its decision. “We contacted the ICC on January 4 and asked for an alternative venue. We explained security concerns and cited incidents from 1996 and 2003… We are not giving up—we will continue to try,” he said.
Unless the ICC shifts venues, the prospect of a T20 World Cup without Bangladesh appears increasingly likely. Scotland is reportedly on standby as a replacement for the 16-team tournament starting February 7.
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