DHAKA: Bangladesh will make a final decision on its participation in the 2026 T20 World Cup, including whether to travel to India, on January 21, sources reported. The International Cricket Council (ICC) reportedly set the deadline for the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) after weeks of discussions over security concerns.
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During a second meeting with the ICC on Saturday, the BCB reiterated its intention to play in the tournament but requested that matches be held outside India, suggesting co-host Sri Lanka as an alternative. The ICC rejected this request, keeping Bangladesh in Group C and assuring the board that there is no security threat for its team while touring India.
ICC sets January 21 deadline on Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup participation
News18’s @Mid_Carder with details @SaroyaHem | #T20WorldCup2026 #Bangladesh pic.twitter.com/gsyowp0NuK
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The ICC also declined the BCB’s request to swap groups with Ireland, stating that tournament logistics and scheduling could not be altered. If Bangladesh decides not to participate, the ICC is expected to name Scotland as a replacement team, based on current rankings.
The dispute stems from the removal of Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from the Kolkata Knight Riders’ IPL 2026 squad on instructions from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which led the Bangladesh government to ban the IPL broadcast in the country. Following this, the BCB formally informed the ICC of its refusal to play T20 World Cup matches in India, a position it has maintained.
Bangladesh’s opening T20 World Cup match is scheduled for February 7 against West Indies in Kolkata, followed by additional group-stage games in Mumbai. Pakistan is also expected to reassess its participation amid the ongoing concerns, while emphasizing that no country should face pressure or threats from India. Dhaka has reportedly received assurances of support from Pakistan regarding its stance.
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The decision is being closely watched internationally, as it may impact tournament logistics and set a precedent for how cricket boards address geopolitical and security concerns during global events.