No ICC Response Yet as Bangladesh Requests T20 World Cup Venue Change
Bangladesh awaits ICC response on shifting matches from India.
Bangladesh Cricket Board president Aminul Islam Bulbul stated on Friday that the BCB has received no communication from the International Cricket Council regarding its formal concerns over playing matches in India during the upcoming T20 World Cup. The tournament is scheduled to commence on February 7, with Bangladesh co-hosting alongside India and Sri Lanka. Bulbul emphasized that the board's stance remains firm and unchanged despite the ongoing uncertainty.
The BCB has previously voiced strong reluctance to send its team to Indian venues, citing security-related apprehensions that have not been adequately addressed. In response, Bangladesh has formally requested the ICC to relocate its assigned matches to Sri Lanka, the third co-host nation, where it believes safer and more favorable conditions can be ensured for its players and support staff.
As of Friday, the ICC has yet to issue any official reply or decision on the matter, leaving the situation unresolved with less than a month remaining before the tournament begins. This prolonged silence has intensified speculation about potential last-minute adjustments to the schedule and the implications for participating teams. The BCB maintains that it will not compromise on player safety and security considerations.
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The T20 World Cup 2026 marks a significant multi-nation event, with India serving as the primary host for the majority of fixtures. Bangladesh's proposed relocation to Sri Lanka would require substantial logistical coordination and approval from the ICC, which oversees all venue allocations and tournament planning. Any alteration could affect broadcast commitments, ticket sales, and the overall structure of the group stages.
The ongoing dispute highlights the complexities involved in hosting major international cricket tournaments across multiple countries. With no resolution in sight, stakeholders continue to monitor developments closely, as the BCB reiterates its commitment to prioritizing the well-being of its players while awaiting a formal response from the ICC governing body.
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