Deadline Looming As BCB Seeks 48 Hours For T20 World Cup 2026
Bangladesh faces replacement threat while Pakistan slams global body
Uncertainty looms over the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 as the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has requested a critical 48-hour window from the International Cricket Council (ICC). The board needs this time to consult with its government regarding the national team's participation in matches scheduled to be held in India.
This development comes after the ICC firmly rejected Bangladesh's request to shift their matches out of India. BCB officials had cited safety concerns and political tensions as the primary reasons for seeking a venue change to Sri Lanka or another neutral country. However, the global cricket body turned down the plea, leaving the BCB in a tough spot.
Sources indicate that the ICC has issued a strict ultimatum. If Bangladesh does not confirm its travel plans within the stipulated time, they could be replaced by Scotland in the marquee tournament. The event is set to kick off on February 7, 2026.
"Our players want to play, and the government is keen too, but we are worried about safety in India," a BCB official stated. The board is now looking for a final directive from the Bangladesh government before responding to the ICC.
Meanwhile, the situation has drawn a sharp reaction from neighboring Pakistan. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) expressed disappointment over the ICC's refusal to accommodate Bangladesh's concerns. Former Pakistani cricketer Kamran Akmal criticised the decision, suggesting that the global body often favors India due to revenue factors.
Despite the dissatisfaction, sources confirm that Pakistan will not withdraw from the tournament. They are reportedly comfortable playing at their designated neutral venues and will continue to support Bangladesh morally without boycotting the event.
As the clock ticks, all eyes are now on Dhaka for a final decision that could reshape the lineup of the T20 World Cup 2026.
With Agency Inputs
