Bangladesh seeks venue change for World Cup matches; BCCI responds

NEW DELHI: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reacted to reports suggesting that Bangladesh is considering shifting its matches in the T20 World Cup 2026 from India to Sri Lanka, amid growing controversy surrounding player safety.

The reports surfaced after Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman was excluded from the Indian Premier League (IPL), prompting concerns within Bangladesh’s cricketing and political circles. According to sources, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has been advised to formally request the International Cricket Council (ICC) to move Bangladesh’s World Cup fixtures out of India.

While BCB President Aminul Islam has not issued any official statement, Bangladesh’s Sports Advisor Asif Nazrul has publicly directed the board to approach the ICC with the request. He stated that if a Bangladeshi player, who is otherwise eligible to play in India under existing agreements, does not feel safe, then the national team cannot be expected to feel secure while playing international matches in the country.

“If the safety of our players cannot be guaranteed, this is a serious matter that must be addressed,” Asif Nazrul said, according to sources familiar with the development.

In response, sources within the BCCI have played down the possibility of any venue changes. Indian cricket board officials have indicated that with barely a month remaining before the tournament, altering match venues would be extremely difficult. “Matches cannot be shifted at anyone’s request. Such changes involve complex logistical and administrative challenges,” a BCCI source said.

As per the existing schedule, Bangladesh is set to play its first three matches of the T20 World Cup in Kolkata, with the fourth match scheduled to take place in Mumbai on February 17.

The situation has added a new layer of tension ahead of the global tournament, with the ICC yet to comment officially on the matter.