Decision taken after BCB declines India travel over security concerns
Dubai: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has formally informed the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) that Bangladesh has been replaced by Scotland in the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup to be held in India. This decision followed BCB’s refusal to confirm participation within the stipulated deadline over security issues
According to sources, senior ICC officials, including chairman Jay Shah, were in Dubai on Friday, January 23, 2026, when the final call was taken. An official communication was sent later that evening to BCB chairman Aminul Islam Bulbul, stating that Bangladesh had failed to respond within the 24-hour window provided by the ICC.
As per the reports by the ICC source, the BCB has already held a press conference in Dhaka before officially informing its position to the ICC, which was described as a breach of established protocol. The board was subsequently informed that it would no longer be part of the tournament.
Bangladesh’s decision was influenced by advice from Sports Ministry advisor Asif Nazrul, who urged against travelling to India despite repeated security assurances from the ICC. The concerns reportedly intensified following developments involving Mustafizur Rahman in the Indian Premier League.
Therefore, Scotland will now be playing their four group matches against the West Indies on February 7, Italy on February 9, and England on February 14 in Kolkata. They will conclude their league campaign against Nepal in Mumbai on February 17. The ICC is expected to release a formal statement in the coming days, bringing clarity to the tournament lineup and schedule.
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