ICC-BCB talks fail as Bangladesh refuse India visit for T20 World Cup despite Jay Shah’s request

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is facing a major dilemma just weeks ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, as Bangladesh remain firm on their stance not to travel to India for their group matches next month, citing security reasons.

Bangladesh stand firm on security concerns during video conference with ICC ahead of T20 World Cup 2026

On Tuesday, January 13, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) held an urgent video conference with the ICC to discuss the team’s participation in India. The online meeting was attended by the top BCB officials, including President Md Aminul Islam, Vice Presidents Md Shakawath Hossain and Faruque Ahmed, Director Nazmul Abedeen, and CEO Nizam Uddin Chowdhury.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board has made it clear that player and staff safety is their highest priority and reiterated its security concerns as they requested the ICC to explore moving Bangladesh’s matches outside India.

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However, the ICC reminded Bangladesh that the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 schedule is already set and asked the Bangladesh cricket board to reconsider its stance, but they denied it, leaving both parties to find a middle ground.

BCB demands relocation of matches

The BCB said in an official media release, “During the discussions, the BCB reaffirmed its position regarding the decision not to travel to India, citing security concerns. The Board also reiterated its request for the ICC to consider relocating Bangladesh’s matches outside India.

The statement further reads, “While the ICC highlighted that the tournament itinerary has already been announced and requested the BCB to reconsider its stance, the Board’s position remains unchanged. Both parties agreed that discussions will continue to explore possible solutions.

The BCB remains committed to safeguarding the well-being of its players, officials, and staff while engaging constructively with the ICC to address the matter.”

To be continued..