ICC Rejects Bangladesh Venue Shift; Scotland Could Replace Them
ICC Rejects Bangladesh Venue Shift; Scotland Could Replace Them
ICC keeps Bangladesh in India for the 2026 T20 World Cup, rejecting a venue shift and warning of a replacement if Dhaka refuses to travel.
NEW DELHI — The ICC board kept the 2026 T20 World Cup schedule intact, ruling out a venue shift for Bangladesh and stating the matches will be played in India. The decision was based on security assessments and independent reviews that found no credible threat to players, media, officials or fans at the tournament venues. The ICC stressed that changing venues so close to the event would jeopardize the neutrality and integrity of future ICC events.
Bangladesh Cricket Board had requested to move their Group C fixtures out of India, citing political and security concerns. The ICC noted that the proposed change would set a dangerous precedent and said it was not feasible to alter the schedule under the current circumstances.
Bangladesh has been given one more day to inform the ICC of its final stance on playing in India. If Dhaka maintains its position, Scotland is expected to replace them in Group C, as they are next in line based on rankings, despite not qualifying through the European Qualifiers.
Pakistan Cricket Board has reportedly backed Bangladesh’s decision to avoid playing in India, though no formal public statement has been issued by the PCB. The development adds a political layer to the sporting dispute and could influence regional dynamics ahead of the tournament.
Analysts say the episode underscores how security and political concerns can collide with sport, and a replacement decision would reshape the group stage, affecting fans, broadcasters and the timeline of the event.
