Bangladesh may face serious consequences if it decides not to play its matches in India during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Reports say the International Cricket Council (ICC) has warned that Bangladesh could lose match points if the team refuses to travel for its scheduled games.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) had asked the ICC to move its World Cup matches from India to Sri Lanka, citing security concerns.
However, according to media reports, the ICC did not accept this request and made it clear that skipping matches would not be allowed under tournament rules. If Bangladesh does not show up for its fixtures, the matches could be declared forfeits.
The BCB has responded by saying it has not received any official warning or written notice from the ICC regarding point deductions or penalties. Board officials have also said that no final decision has been made and that discussions are still ongoing.
Tensions between cricket boards increased after Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman was suddenly released from his Indian Premier League team, Kolkata Knight Riders.
Reports claim this decision was taken following instructions from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), though no official statement has confirmed this. The incident has added to concerns and speculation around Bangladesh’s participation in India-hosted events.
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to begin on February 7. Bangladesh has been placed in Group C and is set to play its matches in Kolkata and Mumbai.
With the tournament approaching, clarity is expected soon as cricket authorities work to ensure the smooth participation of all teams and avoid disruption to the event.
