ICC Tells Bangladesh to Play T20 World Cup in India or Risk Losing Points: Report

The BCB–BCCI dispute over Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman continues to dominate headlines after Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) dropped him from their squad, following directives from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

The decision, reportedly linked to attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh, sparked criticism and raised questions about Mustafizur’s participation in the Indian Premier League. Acting on the BCCI secretary’s instructions, KKR released the left-arm fast bowler, who has now been confirmed for the Pakistan Super League (PSL) next season.

The controversy escalated as the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) flagged security concerns and suggested it might not travel to India for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.

ICC Meeting on the Issue

According to ESPNCricinfo, the ICC held a virtual meeting with the BCB on Tuesday. The governing body, led by Jay Shah, reportedly rejected Bangladesh’s request to move their matches out of India, insisting that the team must play in India or risk losing points. However, reports also indicate that the BCB claimed no official warning or ultimatum was issued by the ICC.

Neither the ICC nor the BCB has released an official statement, and PTI later reported that the meeting could not take place as scheduled and has been delayed.

Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup Schedule

Bangladesh are set to begin their T20 World Cup campaign on February 7 against two-time champions West Indies at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. They will then face Italy on February 9, followed by England, the 2022 T20 World Cup winners. After the England game, Bangladesh will travel to Mumbai to play Nepal at Wankhede Stadium.

BCB’s Formal Request

The Bangladesh Cricket Board has formally requested the ICC to move their T20 World Cup matches outside India, citing safety and security concerns for players. The request comes in the wake of Mustafizur Rahman’s release from KKR, despite the pacer having been signed for INR 9.2 crore at the mini-auction.

Mustafizur has since been confirmed to participate in the Pakistan Super League, as announced by the PCB on X, even though the PSL player auction is yet to take place.

The situation remains tense, with cricket authorities and fans awaiting clarity ahead of the T20 World Cup.