The Bangladesh Cricket Board has responded to claims that the International Cricket Council rejected Bangladesh’s request to move its T20 World Cup matches out of India. Notably, the BCB called the report from ESPNCricinfo inaccurate and misleading, adding that ICC communication did not contain any ultimatum.
The board asked the ICC to move Bangladesh’s matches out of India for the T20 World Cup 2026. According to a report by ESPNcricinfo, the ICC discussed the issue in a virtual meeting and rejected the request. The report said the ICC told Bangladesh that they must travel to India to play the event or risk losing points.
BCB Breaks Silence on ICC’s ‘Play in India or Forfeit Points’ Ultimatum
The board stated that it has received official communication from the ICC regarding safety concerns about playing in India. According to the BCB, the ICC has not issued any threat about forfeiting points and assured that the concerns will be taken seriously and included in detailed security planning.
“The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has received response from the International Cricket Council (ICC) regarding the Board’s expressed concerns over the safety and security of the Bangladesh National Cricket Team in India for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, including the request for relocation of the team’s matches,” the statement read.
“In its communication, the ICC has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the full and uninterrupted participation of the Bangladesh team in the tournament. The ICC has conveyed its willingness to work closely with the BCB to address the concerns raised and has assured that the Board’s inputs will be welcomed and duly considered as part of the detailed security planning for the event.”
Such Claims Are Completely False – Bangladesh Cricket Board
The Bangladesh Cricket Board denied media reports claiming it was given an ultimatum over the T20 World Cup issue. Notably, the board stated that such stories are incorrect and misleading, adding that the communication received from the ICC did not contain any threats or pressure.
“The BCB has also taken note of certain reports published in a section of the media suggesting that the Board has been issued an ultimatum in this regard. The BCB categorically states that such claims are completely false, unfounded and do not reflect the nature or content of the communication received from the ICC,” the statement added.
Board Will Continue Constructive Engagement With the ICC – Bangladesh
The Bangladesh Cricket Board stated that it will keep working closely and positively with the ICC and tournament organizers to find a practical solution. The board also added that the safety, security, and well-being of the Bangladesh team remain its top priority in all discussions and decisions.
“The Board will continue constructive engagement with the ICC and relevant event authorities in a cooperative and professional manner to arrive at an affable and practical solution that ensures the smooth and successful participation of the team in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.”
“The Bangladesh Cricket Board remains firmly committed to placing the highest priority on the safety, security and well-being of the Bangladesh National Cricket Team.”
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