The cricketing calendar faces upheaval: Bangladesh’s government has nixed participation in the T20 World Cup 2026, slamming ICC for ignoring security red flags in India. Advisor Asif Nazrul’s Thursday statement post-team meeting leaves no room for reversal.
‘ICC denied us justice; our decision stands,’ he asserted. An initial request to move matches from Indian venues was dismissed, amid Bangladesh’s internal strife including Hindu-targeted violence. Echoing this, BCCI ousted Mustafizur Rahman from IPL 2026 with KKR, a move Nazrul called a glaring security lapse by a government-aligned board.
Fixtures locked in India include Eden Gardens showdowns—West Indies (Feb 7), Italy (Feb 9), England (Feb 14)—and Nepal in Mumbai (Feb 17). ICC’s firm Wednesday directive to proceed as is proved the breaking point for the Tigers.
Co-hosted by India-Sri Lanka from Feb 7-March 8, the tournament gains a silver lining for Scotland, the top non-qualifier at No. 14. This bold exit amplifies voices on player welfare, ICC governance, and the perils of politically charged hosting. As repercussions ripple, expect heated discussions on reforming global cricket’s framework.