The International Cricket Council (ICC) is reportedly considering alternate venues within India to host Bangladesh’s matches during the T20 World Cup 2026, amid ongoing concerns from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) over player safety.
Read More: Bangladesh asks ICC to move World Cup games
According to reports, the ICC is unlikely to approve BCB’s request to move all of Bangladesh’s fixtures to Sri Lanka, despite repeated representations from the board. Logistical challenges, with less than four weeks remaining before the tournament begins on February 7, are believed to be a major factor behind the ICC’s reluctance.
The dispute escalated after recent geopolitical tensions between India and Bangladesh, prompting the BCB to formally request a venue change. Concerns intensified when Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman was released by IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders following the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) recommendation.
While the ICC has assured full security arrangements, BCB officials have maintained their stance that playing in India could compromise the safety of their players. The ICC has yet to officially respond to BCB’s second formal letter, but sources indicate the request for relocation to Sri Lanka is likely to be rejected again.
Instead, ICC officials are exploring the possibility of moving Bangladesh’s matches to other Indian cities. Chennai and Thiruvananthapuram have emerged as potential options. The Tamil Nadu Cricket Association has indicated readiness to host additional matches at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, citing the availability of eight prepared pitches. The Kerala Cricket Association has also expressed interest in hosting games in Thiruvananthapuram, which is not part of the original venue list.
Read More: Bangladesh in talks with ICC over fate of cricket World Cup games
Bangladesh were originally scheduled to play three group-stage matches in Kolkata—against West Indies on February 7, Italy on February 9, and England on February 14—before travelling to Mumbai to face Nepal on February 17. The ICC is expected to announce its final decision on alternate venues shortly.