Bangladesh’s participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup remains uncertain, with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) denying reports of any deadline set by the International Cricket Council (ICC).
Following two rounds of discussions between the ICC and BCB, no final decision has yet been reached. An ICC delegation visited Bangladesh on 17 January and held talks with BCB officials regarding the issue. After the meeting, media reports claimed the ICC had informed BCB that a decision would be announced by 21 January. However, the board has now rejected that claim.
Speaking at a press conference on 19 January, BCB media committee chairman Amzad Hossain said the ICC had not provided any specific timeline.
“An ICC representative visited us on 17 January and held a meeting with our team officials. We explained the venues where we are unable to play,” said Amzad.
He added that BCB had formally requested an alternative venue.
“We had detailed discussions with their representatives. They told us they would relay our concerns to the ICC and inform us of the decision later. No specific date was mentioned. They only said they would notify us about the next meeting.”
Bangladesh has raised serious security concerns about playing in India following the removal of Mustafizur Rahman from the IPL, despite being bought at the auction. The left-arm pacer was signed by Kolkata Knight Riders for 9.2 crore rupees but was later dropped after pressure from extremist Hindu nationalist groups.
BCB argues that if India failed to ensure the safety of a single Bangladeshi player, it raises questions about the security of the entire national team. As a result, Bangladesh has refused to travel to India for the World Cup and has requested the ICC to move their matches to Sri Lanka, a co-host nation.
Two rounds of talks have already taken place, but uncertainty still surrounds Bangladesh’s participation.
With the World Cup approaching, Pakistan has expressed strong support for Bangladesh’s position. According to Pakistani newspaper Pakistan Observer, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has ordered a suspension of Pakistan’s World Cup preparations.
Sources claim team management has been instructed to submit alternative plans if Pakistan decides not to take part in the tournament. Pakistan has described Bangladesh’s security concerns as “reasonable and justified”.
