As the ICC prepares to make a final decision on Bangladesh’s involvement in the 2026 men’s T20 World Cup, the BCCI has stated that they are unaware of any plans to approach Scotland as a replacement if Bangladesh opts out of traveling to India. Bangladesh has expressed security concerns and requested the ICC to relocate their matches to Sri Lanka, the co-hosting nation. This development follows the BCCI’s decision to release pacer Mustafizur Rahman for IPL 2026 due to political tensions between the two countries.
Bangladesh has proposed to the ICC that they be moved to Group B, swapping places with Ireland, which currently plays its group matches in Sri Lanka. Despite this suggestion, the ICC has assured Ireland that no such change will occur. The BCCI sources emphasized that the ICC will determine the best course of action for cricket and advised the public to rely only on official announcements, dismissing unverified reports circulating on social media.
The ICC officials are reportedly displeased with the BCB’s stance, as the BCB has assured them of no security threats to Bangladesh. The ICC has informed Bangladesh that if they withdraw, a replacement team will be nominated, with Scotland being next in line based on rankings. Scotland, the highest-ranked team that did not qualify for the World Cup, is poised to replace Bangladesh should the ICC opt for this course of action. Despite calls for a schedule change to accommodate Bangladesh playing in Sri Lanka, the ICC has maintained its position against altering the World Cup schedule, reiterating this stance to the BCB during recent discussions.
