Will BCB Insist on Moving Men's T20 WC Matches to Sri Lanka?
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Synopsis
In a recent meeting, the Bangladesh Cricket Board urged ICC representatives to shift Bangladesh's fixtures in the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup to Sri Lanka due to serious security concerns. This could impact the tournament arrangements as tensions between Bangladesh and India grow. What will be the outcome of these discussions?
Key Takeaways
- BCB is urging ICC to relocate matches to Sri Lanka.
- Safety concerns are a primary reason behind this request.
- Ongoing discussions are constructive and professional.
- Group placement changes for Bangladesh were considered.
- ICC and BCB committed to ongoing engagement.
New Delhi, Jan 17 (NationPress) The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has once again emphasized its appeal for the relocation of Bangladesh's matches in the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup to Sri Lanka during recent discussions with representatives from the International Cricket Council (ICC) in Dhaka on Saturday.
“Today, the BCB convened a meeting with ICC representatives to address issues regarding Bangladesh’s involvement in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
“During these discussions, the BCB reiterated its formal request for the ICC to move Bangladesh’s fixtures to Sri Lanka. The Board also conveyed the concerns of the Bangladesh Government regarding the safety and security of the team, fans, media, and other stakeholders,” stated the BCB in a release on Saturday.
Additionally, the BCB mentioned that the possibility of placing Bangladesh in a different group was also a topic of conversation. Currently, Bangladesh's schedule includes matches against West Indies on February 7, Italy on February 9, and England on February 14 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, followed by a game against Nepal on February 17 at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
“The discussions proceeded in a constructive, cordial, and professional atmosphere, with all parties engaging openly on the relevant issues. Among various topics, the potential of relocating Bangladesh to a different group to simplify logistical arrangements was explored,” added the BCB.
India and Sri Lanka are set to co-host the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup beginning on February 7. However, the BCB remains steadfast in its request for league stage matches to be moved to Sri Lanka due to security concerns and rising tensions between Bangladesh and India.
This request follows the Indian Premier League (IPL) three-time champions, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), being instructed by the BCCI to release Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman, the only player from his nation, for the 2026 season, amid reports concerning the treatment of the minority Hindu community.
BCB President Md Aminul Islam, Vice Presidents Md Shakawath Hossain and Faruque Ahmed, Cricket Operations Committee Chairman Nazmul Abedeen, and Chief Executive Nizam Uddin Chowdhury represented the board in its meeting with the ICC.
The ICC delegation included Gaurav Saxena, General Manager of Events and Corporate Communications, and Andrew Ephgrave, General Manager of the Integrity Unit.
“Gaurav Saxena was unable to attend the meeting in person due to a delay in receiving his visa, and thus he participated virtually. Andrew Ephgrave was present in person. The BCB and the ICC have agreed to maintain constructive dialogue on this matter,” concluded the BCB.
Point of View
This ongoing situation highlights the BCB's commitment to the safety of its players and fans amidst rising tensions in the region. The ICC's response will be crucial in determining how the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup proceeds, balancing logistical challenges with the pressing need for security.
NationPress
17/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the BCB want to relocate the matches?
The BCB is concerned about the safety and security of its players, fans, and staff due to rising tensions between Bangladesh and India.
What are the scheduled matches for Bangladesh?
Bangladesh is set to face West Indies, Italy, and England in Kolkata, followed by a match against Nepal in Mumbai.
Who represented the BCB in the meeting with the ICC?
BCB President Md Aminul Islam and other board members, including Vice Presidents and the Cricket Operations Committee Chairman, represented the BCB.
What role does the ICC play in this situation?
The ICC is responsible for overseeing the tournament's arrangements and addressing concerns raised by member boards like the BCB.
Will the group placements be altered for Bangladesh?
The possibility of moving Bangladesh to a different group was discussed, aimed at minimizing logistical adjustments.
