ICC Assures Full Support to Ensure Bangladesh’s Smooth Participation in T20 World Cup

Dhaka, Jan 7 : The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has confirmed that the International Cricket Council (ICC) has assured its full support to ensure Bangladesh’s participation in the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to begin on February 7, proceeds without any disruption.

In an official statement issued on Tuesday, the BCB said the ICC had formally responded to its concerns regarding the safety and security of the Bangladesh national team in India, where a significant portion of the tournament is set to be held. The ICC has also acknowledged the BCB’s request to consider relocating Bangladesh’s matches outside India and expressed its willingness to work closely with the board on all related issues.

“The Bangladesh Cricket Board has received a response from the International Cricket Council regarding the Board’s expressed concerns over the safety and security of the Bangladesh National Cricket Team in India for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, including the request for relocation of the team’s matches,” the BCB said.

According to the statement, the ICC has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the full and uninterrupted participation of Bangladesh in the global event. It has assured the BCB that all concerns raised will be addressed through close coordination and detailed security planning, with the Board’s inputs being welcomed and duly considered.

The BCB also categorically rejected reports in a section of the media claiming that it had been issued an ultimatum by the ICC regarding participation in the tournament. “Such claims are completely false, unfounded, and do not reflect the nature or content of the communication received from the ICC,” the board clarified.

Emphasising a cooperative approach, the BCB said it would continue constructive engagement with the ICC and other event authorities in a professional manner to reach a practical and amicable solution. The board reiterated that the safety, security, and well-being of the Bangladesh National Cricket Team remain its highest priority.

“The Board remains firmly committed to ensuring the smooth and successful participation of the team in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026,” the statement added.

As per the current ICC schedule, Bangladesh have been placed in Group C of the tournament. The team is scheduled to play its first three group matches in Kolkata, facing West Indies on February 7, Italy on February 9, and England on February 14. Bangladesh will then conclude their group-stage campaign against Nepal in Mumbai on February 17.

While the schedule remains unchanged for now, the ICC’s assurance and willingness to review security arrangements in consultation with the BCB have provided reassurance that Bangladesh’s participation in the marquee event will be safeguarded.