ICC gets into action mode amid Bangladesh controversy, puts Eden Gardens on high alert due to…
Eden Gardens is usually all about noise, colour, and celebration. But this Thursday, the iconic Kolkata venue feels more like a control room than a carnival. An ICC inspection team has arrived in the City of Joy to carry out a crucial review of security and logistics ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup and this one is anything but routine.
At the heart of the inspection is Bangladesh’s ongoing standoff with the ICC. The Bangladesh Cricket Board has raised concerns over player safety in India and formally requested that their World Cup matches be shifted to Sri Lanka. The ICC, however, has pushed back firmly, stating that independent assessments have found “no credible threat” to visiting teams.
Eden Gardens Set to Be Bangladesh’s Base
If Bangladesh do travel, Kolkata is set to be their base for the group stage, essentially a home away from home. Their schedule at Eden Gardens is a busy one, starting with the tournament opener and followed by two high-profile clashes:
| Date | Match | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| February 7 | Bangladesh vs West Indies | Tournament Opener |
| February 9 | Bangladesh vs Italy | Group Stage Match |
| February 14 | Bangladesh vs England | Group Stage Match |
With that in mind, preparations are being treated with maximum seriousness. Alongside the ICC visit, the Cricket Association of Bengal and Kolkata Police are holding a comprehensive security review meeting. The plan includes three-tier security cordons, advanced surveillance systems, and specially designed protocols for team movement across the city.
Deadline Pressure on Bangladesh
As of January 22, the situation remains unresolved. The ICC has reportedly issued a clear deadline to the BCB, confirm participation within the next 24 to 48 hours or risk losing the World Cup slot to Scotland.
The tension has been fuelled by a mix of political sensitivities and the fallout from Mustafizur Rahman’s release by Kolkata Knight Riders. While the ICC insists that the KKR decision is unrelated, it remains a major sticking point for the BCB.
Officially, Bangladesh are scheduled to arrive in Kolkata and begin practice on January 26. Unofficially, the cricket world is waiting to see whether that flight actually lands.
What the ICC Is Closely Monitoring
The inspection isn’t just a box-ticking exercise. Several key areas are under close scrutiny:
- Team Transit: Secure “green corridors” between hotels and Eden Gardens
- Stadium Safety: Three-layer security checks for spectators and staff
- Logistics: Readiness of practice facilities at Jadavpur University
- Media & Fans: Dedicated zones for travelling Bangladeshi media and supporters
All Eyes on Dhaka
By all accounts, Kolkata is ready. The police have plans in place, the CAB has done its groundwork, and Eden Gardens is prepared to host another global event. The final call, though, rests with the BCB.
If Bangladesh do show up, Eden is expected to be one of the loudest and most emotionally charged venues of the tournament. If they don’t, the ICC has made it clear it won’t hesitate to hit the reset button.