Asif Nazrul, the Sports Advisor for Bangladesh’s government, affirmed that Bangladesh is standing by its decision to avoid traveling to India for their T20 World Cup games. The team has expressed security concerns and urged the ICC to relocate the matches to Sri Lanka. This request came after the BCCI sought Mustafizur Rahman’s release for IPL 2026, amid strained relations between the two nations.
Nazrul emphasized that Bangladesh will not agree to any unreasonable terms imposed by the ICC under Indian influence. He stated that if pressured, Bangladesh will not yield to playing in India under illogical conditions. Citing past instances involving Pakistan, Nazrul highlighted the need for a logical venue change and rejected any undue pressure.
The ICC is set to make a decision on Bangladesh’s plea by January 21 following discussions between the ICC and the Bangladesh Cricket Board. Bangladesh proposed moving to Group B and suggested swapping places with Ireland, currently playing in Sri Lanka. However, the ICC reassured Ireland that no such switch would occur.
Expressing displeasure, ICC officials noted the BCB’s assurance of no security threats to Bangladesh. They warned that if Bangladesh withdraws, a replacement team will be nominated, with Scotland being the next in line based on rankings.
