Delhi: With the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 just weeks away, the International Cricket Council has taken a tough position on Bangladesh’s request to move its scheduled matches out of India, making it clear that the tournament calendar will not be altered at the last minute.
According to sources familiar with the discussions, the ICC has conveyed to the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) that relocating group-stage fixtures to Sri Lanka is not feasible given the advanced stage of preparations. Venue allocations, team logistics, broadcast arrangements, and accommodation plans across the co-host nations—India and Sri Lanka—have already been finalised.
Officials have reportedly warned that if Bangladesh refuses to play at the designated Indian venues, the team could face disciplinary consequences under tournament regulations, including the possibility of losing points through match forfeiture.
The situation escalated following the sudden release of Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from his Indian Premier League franchise, Kolkata Knight Riders. The decision triggered political outrage and public protests in Bangladesh, with concerns raised over player security and fairness. In response, the BCB formally approached the ICC seeking a venue change for its World Cup matches.
Despite the appeal, ICC officials are understood to have described the proposal as unworkable so close to the tournament’s February 7 start date. The governing body has reiterated that all participating teams are expected to honour the agreed schedule unless extraordinary circumstances arise.
Adding to the tension, the Bangladesh government has imposed an indefinite suspension on the broadcast and promotion of the Indian Premier League within the country. Authorities said the move reflects public anger over Rahman’s exclusion and broader dissatisfaction with how Bangladeshi players are treated in overseas leagues.
The ban is expected to have commercial consequences, as Bangladesh is considered a significant television and digital market for cricket content. Analysts say the decision highlights how sporting disputes can quickly spill over into political and cultural domains.
