T20 World Cup: Bangladesh’s Request To Shift Matches From India Turned Down

The Bangladesh Cricket Board last week formally approached the ICC, seeking to have all of Bangladesh’s matches moved out of India due to heightened security concerns.

Bangladesh, drawn in Group C, will open its campaign in Kolkata against the West Indies on February 7, play Italy on February 9 and England on February 14, and conclude the group stage against Nepal in Mumbai on February 17.

The uncertainty comes less than a month before the 20-team tournament begins.

According to reports, the ICC stated that Bangladesh must adhere to its scheduled fixtures in India. An ICC source clarified that no formal decision has been made regarding relocating the matches.

Neither the ICC nor the BCCI has released an official statement confirming the outcome of the discussions.

The BCB stated that the ICC did not communicate any ultimatum or warning during the talks.

The board made its request after the BCCI directed IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders to release Bangladesh seamer Mustafizur Rahman, who Kolkata had purchased at the December 2025 IPL auction for ₹9.2 crore.

Kolkata Knight Riders selected Rahman as the only Bangladesh player in the IPL 2026 auction.

The situation has heightened scrutiny over security planning ahead of the World Cup and underscores the importance of clear communication between cricket boards in high-profile tournaments.

With the tournament approaching rapidly, clarity on Bangladesh’s participation and travel arrangements remains critical.

The ICC and BCB will continue discussions to ensure the team’s safety and maintain the integrity of the competition.

The outcome will influence not only Bangladesh’s campaign but also broader preparations for the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.

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