Bangladesh remain firm in their decision not to travel to India for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup due to security concerns. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) reiterated this stance during a meeting with an ICC delegation, while discussions were also held regarding the possibility of a group change in the World Cup.
The information was confirmed in a statement issued by the BCB on Saturday night (17 January). Earlier, a BCB delegation led by President Aminul Islam Bulbul met with the ICC representatives in Dhaka.
According to the BCB, the meeting with ICC representatives was held to discuss matters related to Bangladesh’s participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. During the discussions, the BCB formally reiterated its request to the ICC to relocate Bangladesh’s matches to Sri Lanka.
The BCB shared the views and concerns of the Bangladesh government with the ICC delegation regarding the safety and security of the national team, fans, media and other stakeholders. The meeting was conducted in a constructive, cordial and professional manner, with both parties engaging in open discussions on the relevant issues.
The BCB further stated that, among other matters, the possibility of moving Bangladesh to a different group was discussed as a way to facilitate arrangements with minimal logistical adjustments.
The ICC delegation was represented by Gaurav Saxena, General Manager of Events and Corporate Communications, and Andrew Ffregav, General Manager of the Integrity Unit. However, due to not receiving his visa on time, Gaurav Saxena joined the meeting virtually.
From the BCB side, those present included President Md Aminul Islam, Vice Presidents Md Shakhawat Hossain and Faruk Ahmed, Director and Chairman of the Cricket Operations Committee Nazmul Abedeen, and Chief Executive Officer Nizamuddin Chowdhury.