DHAKA: Bangladesh’s cricket board has reaffirmed its decision to not travel to India for next month’s T20 World Cup, following ongoing tensions between the two countries. The Board of Control for Cricket in Bangladesh (BCB) reiterated its position during talks with the International Cricket Council (ICC), citing security concerns as the primary reason for their refusal.
Bangladesh is scheduled to play four group matches in India, starting on February 7. However, the BCB has requested that the ICC consider relocating these matches to Sri Lanka, one of the co-hosts of the tournament.
The issue began to escalate on January 3 when Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman was forced to leave the Indian Premier League (IPL) due to political pressures. Mustafizur had been bought by the Kolkata Knight Riders at the IPL auction in December for over $1 million, and his sacking sparked widespread anger in Bangladesh.
In a video conference with the ICC, the BCB reiterated its request for the World Cup matches to be moved out of India. Political tensions between India and Bangladesh have worsened since the 2024 uprising in Dhaka, which led to the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Relations further soured following India’s condemnation of the treatment of minorities in Bangladesh.
While the ICC has yet to comment on the matter, it has urged the BCB to reconsider its position, as the tournament itinerary has already been finalized. The ICC has requested further discussions with the BCB to explore potential solutions. However, the BCB has remained firm in its stance, emphasizing the safety and well-being of its players, officials, and staff as its top priority.
Bangladesh, led by captain Litton Das, currently ranks ninth in the ICC T20 rankings. Although they have participated in every edition of the tournament, they have never reached the semi-finals.
