The ICC has reportedly given the Bangladesh Cricket Board until January 21 to confirm travel to India for the T20 World Cup 2026, failing which Scotland could replace Bangladesh.
The International Cricket Council has reportedly issued a final deadline to the Bangladesh Cricket Board over travel plans for the 2026 men’s T20 World Cup in India. Reports from ESPNCricinfo state Bangladesh must confirm participation by January 21 or risk losing their spot to Scotland, who would qualify based on current T20I rankings.
The decision followed a meeting between ICC and BCB officials in Dhaka on Saturday. Bangladesh have continued to request a shift of their matches to Sri Lanka, citing security concerns. However, the ICC maintained that no direct threat exists for Bangladesh or any team scheduled to play in India. The ICC also turned down Bangladesh’s request for a group swap with Ireland.
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Concerns escalated after the BCCI asked Kolkata Knight Riders to release Mustafizur Rahman from their IPL 2026 squad. The pacer had been signed for Rs. 9.2 crore in the previous auction. No formal explanation followed.
Within Bangladesh, former players have urged discussions instead of withdrawal. Tensions also rose after a board official downplayed financial impact and ruled out player compensation.
For now, Bangladesh remains scheduled to play three group matches in Kolkata and one in Mumbai, starting February 7.
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