Bangladesh make BIG move against ICC ahead of T20 World Cup 2026, decide to…

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has confirmed that the International Cricket Council (ICC) has asked it to reconsider its position on participating in the T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to be hosted by India and Sri Lanka.

The development was announced on Tuesday, January 13, following a video conference between officials from the ICC and the BCB. Despite the ICC’s request, Bangladesh has made it clear that its stance remains unchanged for now.

Security Concerns at the Heart of the Dispute

Bangladesh’s participation in the global event has been thrown into doubt after the BCB formally asked the ICC to relocate their matches from India to co-host Sri Lanka, citing security concerns. The situation escalated amid prevailing political tensions between India and Bangladesh, which were further highlighted when the BCCI directed IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders to release Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from their squad.

That decision appears to have deepened apprehensions within the BCB, prompting the board to take a hard line on player safety ahead of the World Cup.

High-Level Meeting Between ICC and BCB

The video conference saw senior BCB officials in attendance, including president Aminul Islam, vice-presidents Shakawath Hossain and Faruque Ahmed, director and chairman of the cricket operations committee Nazmul Abedin, and CEO Nizam Uddin Chowdhury.

Following the meeting, the BCB issued a statement reiterating its concerns and position.

“During the discussions, the BCB reaffirmed its position regarding the decision not to travel to India, citing security concerns. The Board also reiterated its request for the ICC to consider relocating Bangladesh’s matches outside India,” the statement read.

ICC Requests Reconsideration, Talks to Continue

According to the BCB, the ICC pointed out that the tournament itinerary has already been announced and urged Bangladesh to reconsider its stance. However, the board made it clear that it is not willing to shift its position at this stage.

“While the ICC highlighted that the tournament itinerary has already been announced and requested the BCB to reconsider its stance, the Board’s position remains unchanged. Both parties agreed that discussions will continue to explore possible solutions,” the statement added.

The BCB also emphasized that player safety remains its top priority, stating that it is committed to protecting the well-being of its players, officials, and support staff while continuing dialogue with the ICC.

Government Backing Strengthens BCB’s Stand

Bangladesh’s position has also been backed at the government level. Sports advisor Asif Nazrul had earlier stated on multiple occasions that the country is not prepared to travel to India for the World Cup under the current circumstances. That support appears to have emboldened the BCB’s stance during talks with the ICC.

‘We Will Not Change Our Stance’: BCB Vice-President

BCB vice-president Shakhawat Hossain struck a firm tone while speaking to reporters after the meeting, leaving little room for ambiguity.

“We are firm in the position we have taken regarding venue relocation. We will not change our stance even by an inch. We are not going to India,” Shakhawat said.

However, he also acknowledged that discussions are ongoing and alternatives are being explored.

“We have stated our position and they are looking for alternatives. The path for discussion is still open,” he added.

Time Running Out Ahead of World Cup

With the T20 World Cup 2026 drawing closer, Shakhawat admitted that time is becoming a key factor in the negotiations.

“Of course, we are in a positive position. There isn’t much time, so we will see. Some arrangements will be made quickly. Since the dialogue has started, let’s see what happens,” he said, while stressing once again that Bangladesh’s stance remains firm.

For now, the ball is firmly in the ICC’s court. Whether a compromise can be reached or whether the situation escalates further, remains one of the biggest off-field storylines ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026.