The ongoing impasse over Bangladesh’s participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 took a dramatic turn when a planned two-member ICC delegation to Dhaka was reduced to one. Andrew Ephgrave, Head of Anti-Corruption and Security at the ICC, arrived alone in the Bangladeshi Capital on January 17 to engage with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). His colleague, a senior executive of Indian nationality, was unable to join after failing to secure a visa in time, according to local media reports citing Bdnews24.

The visit aims to break the deadlock sparked by the BCB’s refusal to send its team to India for group-stage matches, citing security concerns for players and officials. Bangladesh has repeatedly requested relocating its fixtures—against West Indies, Italy, England in Kolkata, and Nepal in Mumbai—to co-host Sri Lanka. The concerns escalated after heightened bilateral tensions, including the BCCI-directed release of Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman from IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders ahead of the 2026 season. This move, amid reports of attacks on minorities in Bangladesh, prompted the BCB to bar IPL broadcasts locally and seek venue changes.

Ephgrave, a former British police officer with vast experience in international sports security, is set to present a detailed security blueprint to reassure BCB authorities of adequate protection for the Bangladesh contingent in India. The ICC has consistently maintained there are no concrete security threats warranting a schedule alteration, rejecting earlier BCB claims and emphasizing the tournament’s fixed itinerary starting February 7. Previous virtual meetings yielded no resolution, with the BCB standing firm on its stance despite ICC assurances of full participation support.

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The visa snag for the Indian-origin official underscores the strained diplomatic backdrop influencing cricketing matters. While the ICC has not commented officially on the visa issue, sources indicate disappointment within the organization. With the World Cup less than three weeks away, the stakes are high—Bangladesh risks match forfeits, point deductions, or further sanctions if it withdraws, though the board remains committed to dialogue for a practical solution prioritizing player safety.

This development highlights how geopolitical frictions can disrupt global cricket events. As Ephgrave holds talks in Dhaka, all eyes are on whether the security assurances can sway the BCB or if further concessions become necessary. The outcome will shape not only Bangladesh’s World Cup campaign but also the broader narrative of Indo-Bangla cricketing ties amid turbulent times.

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