The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has reiterated its refusal to travel to India for next month’s T20 World Cup, citing security concerns for its players and staff. The request was formally conveyed during a video conference with the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday.
Bangladesh is scheduled to play four group-stage World Cup matches in India, with the tournament beginning on February 7. However, the BCB has urged the ICC to relocate its fixtures to co-host Sri Lanka, arguing that political tensions and safety risks make travel to India unsafe.
The controversy escalated in early January when India forced Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman to leave the Indian Premier League (IPL). Mustafizur, who had been acquired by Kolkata for over $1 million, was previously a regular IPL participant. His removal sparked public outrage in Dhaka and added strain to the cricketing and diplomatic ties between the two countries.
Political relations between India and Bangladesh have been tense since a mass uprising in Dhaka in 2024. Bangladesh’s interim leader, Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus, has accused India of exaggerating the unrest, while India has criticized Bangladesh over alleged minority rights violations.
“The BCB reaffirmed its position regarding the decision not to travel to India, citing security concerns,” a BCB statement said. “While the ICC highlighted that the tournament itinerary has already been announced, the Board’s position remains unchanged.”
Bangladesh has participated in all nine editions of the T20 World Cup but has never reached the semi-finals. Discussions with the ICC are ongoing as both sides explore possible solutions. The BCB emphasized that its priority is the safety and well-being of players, officials, and support staff.
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The ICC has not publicly commented on Bangladesh’s request. Fans and cricket analysts are closely watching the situation, as any change in the World Cup schedule could have major implications for the tournament.
