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Key Takeaways
- 1📊 Bangladesh scheduled for 3 matches in Kolkata, 1 in Mumbai starting Feb 7
- 2🏆 Mustafizur Rahman's KKR removal triggered diplomatic crisis between boards
- 3💡 ICC security assessment found no specific threat, only low-to-moderate risks
- 4🔮 Resolution unlikely as ICC maintains tournament schedule is final
"The BCB and ICC had a video conference on Tuesday, after which the Bangladesh board released a statement reaffirming its stance"
The Bangladesh Cricket Board has doubled down on its refusal to travel to India for the 2026 T20 World Cup, reaffirming its stance after a video conference with the ICC on Tuesday. The board remains adamant that security concerns make participation in Indian venues unfeasible and has formally requested the relocation of all Bangladesh matches outside India.
The Mustafizur Fallout
The crisis stems from Kolkata Knight Riders removing star left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman from their IPL 2026 squad without explanation. This decision triggered a diplomatic row between the two cricket boards, with the Bangladesh government subsequently banning IPL broadcasts in the country. Bangladesh sports adviser Asif Nazrul has argued that the ICC's own security assessment validates their concerns, citing three risk factors: Mustafizur's inclusion in the squad, fans wearing Bangladesh jerseys in public, and the timing of Bangladesh's national elections.
However, the ICC has firmly rejected this interpretation, stating that its security assessment identified no specific or heightened threat to the Bangladesh team. The ICC clarified that the overall tournament risk has been assessed as low to moderate—standard categorizations for major global sporting events that do not ordinarily warrant fixture relocations.
What's at Stake
Bangladesh are scheduled to play three group matches in Kolkata at Eden Gardens and one final match in Mumbai at the Wankhede Stadium. The tournament begins February 7, leaving little time for resolution. The ICC maintains that the match schedule is finalized and all participating nations must meet their participation obligations. The Bangladesh Cricket Board awaits an official ICC response to its relocation request, but the international body shows no signs of yielding.
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