In a significant development ahead of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has formally submitted a request to the International Cricket Council (ICC) seeking the relocation of all of Bangladesh’s matches scheduled to be played in India, citing serious concerns over the safety and security of its players and officials. Bangladesh, who are scheduled to play three matches in Kolkata and Mumbai, have officially refused to travel to India amid rising diplomatic tensions between the two countries. The decision was confirmed by the Bangladesh Cricket Board in a statement issued after an emergency meeting of its Board of Directors to review recent political developments and the controversy surrounding pacer Mustafizur Rahman’s exit from the Indian Premier League. The T20 World Cup is scheduled to begin on February 7 and will be co hosted by India and Sri Lanka. Bangladesh are currently slated to play all four of their group matches in India.

Source: Indian Express January 04, 2026 12:33 UTC