'We Are Not Going To India' - BCB Vice President Warns ICC Ahead of ICC T20 World Cup

Udaipur, Jan 14, 2026: Bangladesh will not travel to India for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 matches, Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) vice-president Shakhawat Hossain said on Tuesday, January 13. He spoke to reporters after a meeting and said the BCB hopes for a positive outcome.

“We are firm on the position we have taken about the venue change. We will not change our stance at all. We are not going to India,” Shakhawat said.

He added, “We have clearly stated our position, and the ICC is looking at other options. The door for discussion is still open.”

According to Shakhawat, the BCB remains firm on its decision.

BCB remains firm; talks with ICC continue

Shakhawat Hossain admitted that time is limited and decisions will need to be made quickly.

“Of course, we are in a positive position. There isn’t much time, so we will see what happens. Some arrangements will be made very soon. Since discussions have started, let’s see how things move forward. But we are firm in our position,” he said, adding that both the ICC and the BCB are aware that time is running out.

“Yes, time is short. They know that as well. Arrangements will be made very soon. I can’t say much more, except that the dialogue is still open,” he added.

ICC urges BCB to reconsider its stance

The Bangladesh Cricket Board released a statement on Tuesday afternoon confirming that the International Cricket Council (ICC) has asked the BCB to reconsider its decision not to travel to India.

“During the discussions, the BCB reaffirmed its position regarding the decision not to travel to India, citing security concerns. The Board also repeated its request for the ICC to consider relocating Bangladesh’s matches outside India,” the statement said.

“While the ICC pointed out that the tournament schedule has already been announced and requested the BCB to reconsider its stance, the Board’s position remains unchanged. Both sides agreed to continue discussions to explore possible solutions,” it added.

The statement also said the BCB remains committed to protecting the safety and well-being of its players, officials, and staff, while continuing constructive talks with the ICC.

Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup 2026 schedule

Bangladesh are scheduled to play their first three Group C matches of the T20 World Cup 2026 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. They will then travel to Mumbai to face Nepal at the Wankhede Stadium on February 17.

February 7 (Saturday): West Indies – Eden Gardens, Kolkata

February 9 (Monday): Italy – Eden Gardens, Kolkata

February 14 (Saturday): England – Eden Gardens, Kolkata

February 17 (Tuesday): Nepal – Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai