Will BCB Confirm ICC Support for T20 WC in India?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- ICC supports BCB's participation in T20 World Cup.
- Security concerns are being addressed collaboratively.
- No ultimatum received by BCB from ICC.
- First matches scheduled in Kolkata, India.
- BCB prioritizes team safety and well-being.
Dhaka, Jan 7 (ICC) The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has officially announced that the International Cricket Council (ICC) will extend its support to guarantee that Bangladesh’s involvement in the forthcoming T20 World Cup, commencing on February 7, will occur seamlessly.
Furthermore, the board highlighted that the ICC has addressed their proposal to shift matches from India due to security apprehensions, and has expressed a willingness to collaborate closely with the BCB to tackle all pertinent issues and incorporate their feedback into the security protocols.
“The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has received communication from the International Cricket Council (ICC) concerning the Board’s articulated worries regarding the safety and security of the Bangladesh National Cricket Team in India for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, particularly regarding the request to relocate the team's matches,” stated the BCB in its announcement.
“In its response, the ICC has reaffirmed its dedication to ensuring the uninterrupted participation of the Bangladesh team in the tournament. The ICC has indicated its readiness to work in close cooperation with the BCB to address the raised concerns and has promised that the Board’s insights will be welcomed and thoughtfully considered within the comprehensive security strategy for the event.
“The BCB has also acknowledged various reports circulating in certain media outlets alleging that the Board has received an ultimatum on this matter. The BCB firmly asserts that such claims are entirely inaccurate, baseless, and do not accurately reflect the nature or content of the communication received from the ICC.
“The Board will maintain constructive dialogue with the ICC and relevant event authorities in a collaborative and professional manner to achieve a friendly and practical solution that guarantees the smooth and successful engagement of the team in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The Bangladesh Cricket Board remains steadfast in prioritizing the utmost safety, security, and well-being of the Bangladesh National Cricket Team,” the statement concluded.
According to the current schedule and plans set by the ICC, Bangladesh, placed in Group C, is expected to play their initial three matches in Kolkata: against West Indies on February 7, Italy on February 9, and England on February 14, culminating the group stage against Nepal in Mumbai on February 17.