Bangladesh Rejects Playing T20 World Cup Matches in India, Cites Security Concerns

Bangladesh has firmly stated it will not travel to India for the upcoming T20 World Cup, despite pressure from the International Cricket Council (ICC) to confirm participation by January 21. Government sports advisor Asif Nazrul emphasized that Bangladesh would not accept any “unreasonable conditions” set by the ICC or the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

The controversy escalated after Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman was removed from Kolkata Knight Riders’ IPL roster on BCCI’s instructions, prompting the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to cite security concerns and national pride in refusing to play in Kolkata and Mumbai. The BCB has proposed that all its group-stage matches, including the marquee India-Pakistan clash, be held in Sri Lanka , in line with a previously agreed arrangement for ICC events through 2027.

Currently placed in Group C with West Indies, Italy, England, and Nepal, Bangladesh has suggested swapping groups with Ireland in Group B to avoid traveling to India entirely. While the ICC’s risk assessment report reportedly flagged no specific threat to the team, Bangladesh remains firm, citing past instances where Pakistan refused to play in India and ICC accommodated changes.

The standoff has raised concerns over bilateral cricketing relations and broader diplomatic ties, which have seen tension in recent months. Former captain Tamim Iqbal and current Test skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto have advised caution, warning that decisions taken now could have long-term consequences for Bangladesh cricket.

If Bangladesh maintains its stance, Scotland is likely to replace the team in the World Cup, according to current ICC rankings.