Bangladesh pushes for group switch in T20 World Cup to avoid India trip

Samira Vishwas

Tezzbuzz|18-01-2026

Overview:

Bangladesh had written to the ICC twice, urging them to shift their games to Sri Lanka. The problem started after the BCCI removed Mustafizur Rahman from the IPL 2026.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board wants the International Cricket Council to change their group to ensure the matches are held in Sri Lanka in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The BCB revealed the new development in a press release on January 17, following their discussion with the officials of the ICC, who came to Bangladesh to discuss the ongoing T20 World Cup controversy.

“During the discussions, the BCB reiterated its formal request to the ICC to relocate Bangladesh’s matches to Sri Lanka. The Board also shared the Bangladesh Government’s views and concerns on the safety and security of the team, Bangladeshi fans, media and other stakeholders,” the BCB said in the press release.

“The discussions were conducted in a constructive, cordial and professional manner, with all parties engaging openly on the relevant issues. Among other points, the possibility of moving Bangladesh to a different group as a means of facilitating the matter with minimal logistical adjustments was discussed,” it added.

Bangladesh has refused to send the national team to India due to security concerns. The ICC hasn’t agreed to their demand despite several meetings between the two parties.

Bangladesh had written to the ICC twice, urging them to shift their games to Sri Lanka. The problem started after the BCCI removed Mustafizur Rahman from the IPL 2026.

The relationship between India and Bangladesh has taken a hit since the violence against Hindus in Bangladesh. The BCB reacted angrily, and the Bangladesh sports minister also banned the broadcast of IPL matches in the country. There is no clarity on ICC’s next move, with time running out, considering the start of the global tournament on February 7.