The International Cricket Council (ICC) is expected to respond to the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s (BCB) request to shift its T20 World Cup 2026 matches from India early this week, with sources indicating that Sri Lanka is unlikely to be approved as an alternative venue.
According to reports, the ICC is instead set to suggest Chennai and Thiruvananthapuram as replacement venues within India, should changes be made to Bangladesh’s originally scheduled fixtures in Kolkata and Mumbai.
BCB pushed for Sri Lanka citing security concerns
The BCB formally approached the ICC earlier this month, requesting that Bangladesh’s World Cup matches be moved out of India due to player safety concerns. The request followed the sudden removal of fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from the IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders, a move that intensified debate in Bangladesh over the treatment and security of its players.
Bangladesh had proposed Sri Lanka as its preferred alternative, a suggestion that has now reportedly lost traction within ICC circles.
ICC unlikely to move matches out of India
Sources suggest the ICC is reluctant to relocate matches outside India at this stage, given the logistical challenges involved with the tournament less than a month away. Instead, Chennai and Thiruvananthapuram are being considered as compromise options to address Bangladesh’s concerns while keeping fixtures within the host nation.
Under the current schedule, Bangladesh are slated to play three group matches in Kolkata and one in Mumbai.
Bangladesh yet to soften stance
BCB president Aminul Islam Bulbul recently indicated that any decision would require government consultation, maintaining that the board has not shifted from its original position. The Bangladesh government has also sought direct assurances regarding security arrangements ahead of the tournament.
The ICC may point to the presence of Bangladeshi officials, including umpire Sharfuddoula Saikat, who recently officiated in India, as part of its response to the security concerns raised.
Decision expected imminently
With teams due to arrive in early February for preparations, the ICC is keen to resolve the matter swiftly. A final decision on Bangladesh’s venues is expected between Monday and Tuesday, as the governing body looks to prevent further disruption to the T20 World Cup schedule.
