Dhaka: Time is running down for the Bangladesh Cricket Board to answer the International Cricket Council (ICC) ultimatum with regards to participation at the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
The controversy has reached a critical juncture as the BCB and the International Cricket Council (ICC) remain at odds over the Bangladesh men’s team’s participation. The ICC has issued an ultimatum to BCB, reported CrickIT by HT.
The BCB has consistently refused to send its national team to play World Cup matches in India, citing security and safety concerns for its players and staff. But the ICC has rejected Bangladesh’s request to shift venues and maintained that there is no substantial security threat warranting such a move.
Bangladesh’s group matches are scheduled in Kolkata and Mumbai; BCB officials have demanded that these fixtures be relocated to co-host Sri Lanka instead.
The disagreement stems partly from diplomatic tensions following the controversial removal of Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from his Indian Premier League (IPL) side earlier this month — a move that angered the BCB.
Delhi HC junks petition seeking ban on Bangladesh in international cricket
Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court was met by a public litigation petition to bar Bangladesh from international cricket competition, reported HT. However, the bench of Chief Justice DK Upadhyay pointed out that this simply didn’t fall under their jurisdiction. He stated that the court’s time should not be ‘wasted’ by matters to be directed to the Foreign Affairs branch.
“What kind of petition is this? You are asking the court to take policy decisions in respect of foreign affairs? Let it be left to the ministry of foreign affairs. You are asking us to conduct some inquiry in Bangladesh? Will our writ go there? Please bring in a good cause. Can any writ be issued by us?” stated the bench, as quoted by HT
PCB supports Bangladesh’s stance, but says it won’t boycott tourney
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) reportedly wrote to the ICC in support of Bangladesh’s stance on relocating matches, adding complexity to the dispute.
However, Pakistan has also clarified it will not boycott the tournament, dismissing earlier reports that it might withdraw in solidarity.
What are players in Bangladesh saying?
Some Bangladesh players, including senior batters, have publicly expressed their desire to play at the T20 World Cup, highlighting internal frustration over the uncertainty.
With less than three weeks to go before the tournament’s February 7 start, the ICC board is expected to make a final decision on Bangladesh’s status. If no resolution is reached, cricket administrators may consider alternate arrangements for the fixtures or a replacement team.
