The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) officially informed the ICC on January 4, 2026, that its national team will not travel to India for the T20 World Cup 2026. Citing severe security concerns, the board requested to move all group matches to Sri Lanka. This decision follows a diplomatic row after the BCCI forced Kolkata Knight Riders to release pacer Mustafizur Rahman from his IPL contract.

Security Concerns Reshape T20 World Cup 2026

The T20 World Cup 2026 face a major scheduling crisis just five weeks before the February 7 start date. Bangladesh was set to play all four opening games in Kolkata and Mumbai. However, the BCB now insists on a neutral venue. The board cited advice from the Bangladesh government regarding the safety of their players and officials in India.

The Mustafizur Rahman IPL Controversy

The tension peaked when the BCCI instructed the Kolkata Knight Riders to drop Mustafizur Rahman on January 3. Political pressure in India led to this move following reports of instability across the border. Bangladesh Sports Adviser Asif Nazrul called the move an “insult.” He stated that if a single player is not safe for the IPL, the entire team cannot feel secure for a World Cup.

ICC Faces Logistical Challenges in Sri Lanka

The ICC is currently reviewing the request to relocate matches to Sri Lanka. Moving games involving England and the West Indies on such short notice creates massive logistical hurdles. If the ICC agrees, Bangladesh will join Pakistan as the second team to play exclusively in Sri Lanka during the T20 World Cup 2026.