Bangladesh Won’t Travel to India for T20 World Cup: BCB Statement

Overview of the Decision

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) announced on Sunday that the national team will not travel to India for the upcoming T20 World Cup. This decision was made during a board meeting held on the same afternoon.

Background of the Decision

The discussion surrounding the team’s travel to India intensified after fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman exited the Indian Premier League (IPL). Prior to this announcement, BCB directors had met online on Saturday to discuss the situation.

Government Influence on BCB’s Decision

Most directors initially leaned towards not taking immediate action; however, after consulting with the Bangladesh government, the board reassessed its position and decided to prohibit the team’s travel.

Official Statement from BCB

"The Board reviewed the situation in detail, taking into account developments over the last 24 hours and expressed deep concern over the overall circumstances surrounding the participation of the Bangladesh National Team in matches scheduled to be played in India," the BCB stated.

The board added, "Following a thorough assessment of the prevailing situation and the growing concerns regarding the safety and security of the Bangladesh contingent in India and considering the advice from the Bangladesh Government, the Board of Directors resolved that the Bangladesh National Team will not travel to India for the tournament under the current conditions."

Request for Venue Change

In light of this decision, the BCB has requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) to relocate all of Bangladesh’s matches outside India. The board emphasized that this change is essential for the safety and well-being of players, officials, and other stakeholders involved.

Diplomatic Issues Affecting Cricket

This development followed Mustafizur Rahman’s release by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) due to directives from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), amidst rising diplomatic tensions between India and Bangladesh.

BCCI’s Position

The BCCI has permitted KKR to name a replacement player if necessary for the tournament, which kicks off on March 26.

Upcoming Matches and Team Selection

India and Sri Lanka will jointly host the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Bangladesh was slated to play against West Indies in Kolkata on February 7, the tournament’s opening day, with other matches scheduled in Kolkata and Mumbai. Earlier, the BCB also announced a 15-member squad for the World Cup, appointing Liton Das as captain.

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