BCB finally breaks silence on ICC’s ‘play in India or forfeit points’ ultimatum for T20 World Cup 2026

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 BCB 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 BCB stated that it has received official communication from the ICC regarding Bangladesh’s 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.”

More to follow…

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