T20 World Cup 2026: Bangladesh seeks match relocation, ICC rejects. Pakistan backs Bangladesh amid security dispute; Scotland may replace them.
The controversy over Bangladesh’s participation in the T20 World Cup 2026 is intensifying, as the team continues to refuse travel to India due to security concerns.
Bangladesh has formally requested the ICC to move their matches to Sri Lanka and swap fixtures with Ireland. However, the ICC has rejected this request, giving Bangladesh until January 21 to confirm their decision. If Bangladesh does not respond or decides to withdraw, Scotland may replace them in the tournament.
Pakistan has publicly backed Bangladesh, stating that no team should be forced to play under security threats. Sources told Telecom Asia Sport that Pakistan considers Bangladesh’s concerns legitimate and has warned it may reconsider its own participation if the issue remains unresolved. Geo News reported that Pakistan has offered full support and even suggested hosting Bangladesh’s matches if Sri Lanka cannot.
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The dispute reportedly began after BCCI asked KKR to remove Mustafizur Rahman from their IPL 2026 squad, prompting the Bangladesh Cricket Board to raise security concerns about playing in India and request relocation of their T20 World Cup matches.
Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup 2026 Schedule
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Feb 7, 2026: West Indies vs Bangladesh – Eden Gardens, Kolkata – 3:00 PM IST
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Feb 9, 2026: Bangladesh vs Italy – Eden Gardens, Kolkata – 11:00 AM IST
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Feb 14, 2026: England vs Bangladesh – Eden Gardens, Kolkata – 3:00 PM IST
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Feb 17, 2026: Bangladesh vs Nepal – Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai – 7:00 PM IST