Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president Aminul Islam reacted after the International Cricket Council (ICC) rejected Bangladesh’s request to shift their T20 World Cup 2026 matches away from India.
He said the board is still hoping for a miracle and will consult the government before making a final decision.
The ICC gave the BCB a 24-hour deadline to confirm participation. If Bangladesh sticks to its stance of not travelling to India, Scotland will replace them in the tournament. Aminul Islam asked the ICC for more time to speak to the Bangladesh government. He explained that he did not want to put pressure on the government, but insisted that India is not secure for Bangladesh players. He maintained that Bangladesh wants to play in Sri Lanka and promised to inform the ICC after consulting the government again.
Aminul Islam stressed that players want to participate in the World Cup, but the final decision lies with the government. He said the Bangladesh players want to play, the government wants Bangladesh to play, but safety concerns remain. He added that a government considers all aspects before making such a decision.
The ICC clarified that matches will proceed in India as scheduled. Officials said there is no credible threat to the safety of Bangladesh players, officials, or fans. The ICC Board, meeting via video conference, noted that relocating matches could undermine the neutrality and sanctity of ICC events.
As the deadline nears, Bangladesh’s participation in the T20 World Cup remains uncertain. The final call depends on the government’s stance, leaving the BCB and players waiting for clarity.
