No independent security basis to move Bangladesh games out of India

The standoff between the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) continues over Bangladesh's demand to move their T20 World Cup 2026 games out of India. However, information has emerged that no independent security assessment has found any credible threat to the Bangladesh contingent in India.

An independent agency engaged by the ICC has concluded the overall security risk for the team is virtually nil, with the threat perception assessed as normal for any ICC event.

A highly-placed source stated, "It is important to clarify that the ICC's independent risk assessments, carried out by internationally recognised security experts, do not conclude that Bangladesh cannot play its scheduled matches in India. The overall security risk for the tournament in India has been assessed as low to moderate, which is consistent with the profile of many major global sporting events."

The ICC is aware of statements from the Bangladesh camp, including an official speaking about risks for players in India. Contrary to these claims, there is no evidence of a direct threat to them in Kolkata and Mumbai, where Bangladesh are scheduled to play their four league games.

"The ICC is aware of public comments made in recent days concerning the participation of Bangladesh… The assessments did not identify any specific or direct threat to the Bangladesh team, team officials, or match venues in India. Based on the professional advice received, the risk associated with Bangladesh's scheduled fixtures in Kolkata and Mumbai is assessed as low to moderate, with no indication of risks that cannot be effectively managed through established security planning," sources said.

The ICC's position has not changed, meaning Bangladesh's schedule—dates and venues—remains unchanged. The ICC continues to engage all stakeholders on safety and security and has reminded the BCB of their obligations under the Terms of Participation.

It has been found that some reports from Bangladesh have misinterpreted routine contingency planning as an indication of actual risk. Such scenario planning is standard practice to ensure preparedness for all eventualities.

"These scenarios are not statements of fact, instructions, or expectations, nor do they represent conditions set by the ICC regarding team selection, supporter behaviour, or domestic political processes," sources clarified.

There were also claims that the ICC asked the BCB not to select Mustafizur Rahman for security reasons and that fans should avoid wearing the national jersey in India. Sources clarified that, as a matter of policy, the ICC does not instruct boards on player selection for security reasons or advise supporters on attire.

"The ICC has full confidence in the security arrangements being developed in close collaboration with the BCCI and relevant local authorities, who have a strong and proven track record of safely delivering major international sporting events," sources reiterated.

Security assessments are normal practice for all ICC events, including the upcoming T20 World Cup. The ICC engages all participating members, including the BCB, in this process.

"The ICC remains open to constructive dialogue and feedback to further strengthen arrangements where appropriate," the source added.

Bangladesh are scheduled to play three Group C matches in Kolkata: against West Indies on February 7, Italy on February 9, and England on February 14, before facing Nepal in Mumbai on February 17. It was previously reported that the ICC is exploring Chennai and Thiruvananthapuram as potential alternative venues for the Bangladesh games.