Bangladesh will have to play the T20 World Cup on Indian soil if they wish to participate; otherwise, another team will be given the opportunity in their place. Such a decision was taken at an emergency meeting of the International Cricket Council (ICC).

The ICC meeting held on Wednesday (21 January) discussed Bangladesh’s refusal to travel to India to play in the T20 World Cup.

During the meeting, it was decided that if Bangladesh refuse to travel to India to take part in the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, they will be replaced by another team in the tournament. Following this decision, a vote was taken among the ICC member boards, with the majority voting in favour of including a replacement team.

In a statement, the BCB said the decision was taken after considering all security assessments conducted, including independent reviews, all of which indicated that there was no threat to Bangladesh players, media personnel, officials and fans at any tournament venue in India.

The ICC further said that changing the venue so close to the tournament is not feasible and that changing the schedule in the absence of any credible security threat could set a precedent that would jeopardise the sanctity of future ICC events.

Due to security concerns, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has so far remained firm in its stance of not playing in India. However, following the ICC’s decision, the BCB may hold fresh discussions with the government on the issue.