The ICC has rejected accreditation applications from Bangladeshi journalists for the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, a move that has prompted the Bangladesh Cricket Board to formally seek an explanation in Dhaka this week.
This decision landed on the same day the ICC confirmed Scotland as Bangladesh’s replacement for the tournament. Bangladesh’s refusal to play matches in India triggered their removal, and the fallout now stretches beyond the team.
BCB media committee chairman Amjad Hussain confirmed the board has already asked questions. He said, “You know the decision only came yesterday, and after that we asked for an explanation.” The timing suggests the ICC acted quickly and left little room for discussion.
Amjad stressed that the board wants clarity, not confrontation. He said, “This is a confidential matter. The main issue is why it has been done, and we have asked to understand that.” His words underline uncertainty rather than acceptance.
Journalists pointed to clear precedent. Bangladesh did not play the 1996 World Cup or the 2013 Champions Trophy, yet Bangladeshi media still covered both events.
Amjad acknowledged those examples and widened the argument. He said, “It is not mandatory for a team to participate in a tournament for its media to cover it.” That statement reflects established practice across global sport.
He even drew comparisons with football. Amjad said, “Bangladesh have never played in the FIFA World Cup, but our journalists attend because we are FIFA members.” The logic feels hard to dispute.
Despite that, he admitted the final call sits with the ICC. He said, “It would have been better if they allowed our media, but it is their decision and we have nothing more to say.” That line carries resignation rather than approval.
Amjad believes the ICC missed an opportunity. He said, “We are the third highest audience country among the 12 full members. Even if our team does not play, the World Cup still happens and our journalists could present it to our viewers.” Audience numbers, not just teams, drive modern tournaments.
Bangladeshi journalists regularly travel vast distances to cover even bilateral series. Yet for a World Cup next door, nearly 100 applicants now sit rejected.
An unnamed ICC official offered a stark explanation to Indian media NDTV. The official said, “They were not given visas or accreditation because the government believes it is unsafe for them to travel to India.” That claim raises further questions, especially given regional proximity.
