Bangladesh T20 World Cup 2026 Participation Controversy
Bangladesh has refused to play its T20 World Cup 2026 matches in India and wants a venue change. The ICC has rejected the demand and warned Bangladesh of possible replacement.
ISH News had earlier informed viewers about Bangladeshi cricketer Mustafizur Rahman being removed from the IPL. Now, another major issue involving Bangladesh cricket is making headlines ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
The ICC T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from 7 February to 8 March 2026. Bangladesh has been placed in Group C along with England, West Indies, Italy, and Nepal. As per the schedule, Bangladesh is supposed to play its group matches in Kolkata and Mumbai.
However, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has refused to send its national team to India for these matches. The BCB has demanded that Bangladesh be shifted to Group B in place of Ireland, so that all their matches can be played in Sri Lanka. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has rejected this request and has asked the BCB to confirm Bangladesh’s participation by 21 January.
The ICC has warned that if Bangladesh does not agree to play in India, a replacement team may be selected. Reports say Scotland could replace Bangladesh, as Scotland is the highest-ranked team that did not qualify for the tournament. Scotland has played in six out of nine T20 World Cups, including the 2024 edition in the USA and West Indies.
The BCB has remained firm on its stand. BCB director Amzad Hossain said the board clearly informed the ICC that Bangladesh is unable to play at the specified venues and requested an alternative. Bangladesh has also reportedly sought support from the Pakistan Cricket Board.
Pakistan, however, has clarified that it will not boycott the tournament even if Bangladesh withdraws, as Pakistan’s matches are already scheduled in Sri Lanka. The situation remains unresolved for now.
