Amid Mustafizur row, BCB takes tough stand, rejects ‘play or forfeit’ ultimatum for T20 World Cup 2026, says…

The standoff between the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and the ICC over the upcoming T20 World Cup has taken a sharp turn. After days of rumours and “leaked” ultimatums, the BCB has finally broken its silence to set the record straight. Here is the breakdown of where things stand as of January 7, 2026.

BCB Denies ‘Play or Forfeit’ Ultimatum

Earlier today, reports began circulating that the ICC had essentially told Bangladesh to “show up in India or lose your points.” The BCB has come out swinging against these claims, calling them “completely false and unfounded.”

In an official statement, the board clarified that their communication with the ICC has actually been quite professional. Instead of threats, the ICC has reportedly expressed a willingness to work closely with the BCB to address their security concerns.

The Core of the Dispute

The tension started when the BCB requested that their Group C matches, originally scheduled for Kolkata and Mumbai be moved to co-host Sri Lanka. The Reason – “Safety and security concerns” for the players in India.

This follows the controversial exit of pacer Mustafizur Rahman from the IPL under BCCI directives, which sparked a diplomatic and cricketing row between the neighbors.

What the ICC is Saying

While the ICC hasn’t officially moved any games yet, they’ve reiterated their commitment to ensuring Bangladesh’s “full and uninterrupted participation.”

According to the BCB, the global body has assured them that, the BCB’s specific concerns will be welcomed and “duly considered” in the tournament’s final security planning. Both parties are looking for an “affable and practical solution” rather than a confrontation.

Group C: What’s at Stake?

Bangladesh is currently placed in a tricky Group C. If the schedule remains unchanged, their road to the trophy looks like this:

The BCB is playing a high-stakes game of chess, prioritizing player well-being while trying to avoid a total fallout with the ICC. For now, the “ultimatum” is a myth, but the clock is ticking, the T20 World Cup kicks off in exactly one month.