ICC urges Bangladesh to reconsider stance amid T20 World Cup venue dispute

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) announced on Tuesday that the International Cricket Council (ICC) has requested them to reconsider their position on participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026.

This follows a video conference between the BCB and the ICC. Bangladesh's participation is in question after the BCB asked the ICC to relocate their matches from India to co-hosts Sri Lanka, citing security concerns. This request came after the BCCI directed IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders to release Mustafizur Rahman from their squad due to political tensions between the two nations.

In a statement, the BCB said: "During the discussions, the BCB reaffirmed its position regarding the decision not to travel to India, citing security concerns. The Board also reiterated its request for the ICC to consider relocating Bangladesh's matches outside India."

"While the ICC highlighted that the tournament itinerary has already been announced and requested the BCB to reconsider its stance, the Board's position remains unchanged. Both parties agreed that discussions will continue to explore possible solutions."

BCB vice-president Shakhawat Hossain told reporters: "We are firm in the position we have taken. We will not change our stance even by an inch. We are not going to India."

He added: "We have stated our position and they are looking for alternatives. The path for discussion is still open… Yes, the time is short. They know that too. Arrangements will be made very soon."