T20 World Cup 2026: Bangladesh reject pressure over playing matches in India

Tensions around the ICC Men's T20 World Cup have intensified after Bangladesh made it clear that it will not accept pressure from either the International Cricket Council or the Board of Control for Cricket in India over playing matches in India.

Bangladesh’s sports adviser Asif Nazrul on Monday issued a firm warning, stating that Dhaka would reject any “unreasonable conditions” imposed on the team amid the ongoing dispute surrounding its T20 World Cup 2026 fixtures.

The global tournament is scheduled to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8, 2026. However, Bangladesh have so far refused to play their group-stage matches at Indian venues, citing security concerns.

Bangladesh seek venue shift from India

The ICC’s provisional schedule places Bangladesh’s group matches at Eden Gardens in Kolkata and Wankhede Stadium. The Bangladesh Cricket Board has formally requested that these fixtures be moved to Sri Lanka or that groups be reshuffled so the team can play all its matches outside India.

Nazrul dismissed speculation that Bangladesh could be replaced in the tournament if the standoff continues. He said there had been no official communication suggesting another team would step in and reiterated that Bangladesh would not be coerced into accepting terms it considers unfair.

“We will not accept pressure from anyone, whether it comes directly or indirectly,” Nazrul said, underlining that Bangladesh’s stance is based on safety considerations and not political motives.

ICC reluctant to change schedule

With the tournament only weeks away, the ICC is reportedly hesitant to make last-minute changes to venues already finalised. Officials are believed to be concerned that accommodating Bangladesh’s request could set a precedent for future tournaments.

Bangladesh are currently placed in Group C alongside England cricket team, West Indies cricket team, Italy national cricket team and Nepal national cricket team, with four league matches scheduled in India.

If Bangladesh were to withdraw or be forced out, Scotland national cricket team is reportedly the leading candidate to replace them based on rankings, a move that could trigger further controversy.

Standoff casts shadow over tournament

The impasse has led to urgent discussions between ICC officials and Bangladesh representatives as organisers race to prevent disruption to one of cricket’s biggest global events. For now, Bangladesh have drawn a clear line, signalling they are prepared to stand their ground even as pressure mounts.

With the opening match fast approaching, the unresolved dispute risks overshadowing preparations for the T20 World Cup 2026 and raises broader questions about governance, security concerns and the balance of power in international cricket.