Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria expressed strong support for the ICC’s decision to maintain the T20 World Cup schedule despite Bangladesh’s choice not to participate. Kaneria emphasized that Bangladesh’s absence would not significantly impact the tournament, as they were unlikely to reach the top four. Bangladesh had cited security concerns for not traveling to India and requested their matches be relocated to Sri Lanka, but the ICC confirmed that the event would proceed as planned, with Bangladesh’s games still in India.
Kaneria highlighted the case of Mustafizur Rahman, released by Kolkata Knight Riders for IPL 2026 due to political tensions between India and Bangladesh. He noted that the decision was made by KKR owner Shah Rukh Khan out of humanitarian concerns, with no pressure from BCCI or ICC. Kaneria underscored that all teams under the ICC receive comprehensive security arrangements.
Discussing the ICC meeting, Kaneria mentioned that most boards, except Pakistan and Bangladesh, supported the ICC’s stance. He condemned the disturbing events in Bangladesh and emphasized the need to uphold humanity over violence. Kaneria cautioned that Bangladesh’s rigid stance could have negative repercussions on their cricketing future, especially in terms of international matches.
Kaneria backed the ICC’s decision-making process, asserting that last-minute changes to mega tournaments are impractical. He believed that if Bangladesh chose not to participate, it would not greatly impact the competition’s outcome. Kaneria dismissed speculations about Pakistan following Bangladesh’s path, stating that the ICC has contingency plans in place to address such situations.
