ICC Rejects Bangladesh’s Venue Shift Request for T20 World Cup 2026

January 7, 2026: Conflicting reports have come out after the ICC’s call with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) over their request to move Bangladesh’s matches in the T20 World Cup 2026 outside India.

According to a report by ESPNCricinfo, the ICC clearly told the BCB during a virtual meeting on Tuesday that it had rejected the request to change venues. The report also said that the ICC informed the BCB that Bangladesh must travel to India to take part in the T20 World Cup or risk losing points.

However, the BCB has strongly denied receiving any such warning or ultimatum. A senior BCB official stated that the ICC has not issued any official directive or threat so far.

Earlier, the BCB had written to the ICC on Sunday, asking the governing body to consider shifting the team’s matches to Sri Lanka. The request was made citing concerns over the “safety and well-being” of the players due to the worsening relations between India and Bangladesh.

There has been no official update from the ICC, BCCI, or the BCB on this issue, even though only one month is left before the T20 World Cup begins. Bangladesh are placed in Group C along with West Indies, Italy, England, and Nepal. They will start their campaign on February 7 against West Indies.

The BCB’s move came after the BCCI asked the Kolkata Knight Riders to release left-arm fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman.

Where Are Bangladesh Scheduled to Play Their Matches?

Bangladesh’s first three league matches are scheduled to be played in Kolkata. Their final group-stage match will be against Nepal on February 17 in Mumbai. An official statement on the matter is expected soon, as time is running out.

A late change in the schedule could also affect the travel plans of other teams and fans, making the situation more complicated.

#T20WorldCup #BangladeshCricket #ICC #CricketNews #VenueChange #T20WorldCup2026