New Delhi: Bangladesh stands on the brink of exclusion from the T20 World Cup 2026 due to its refusal to play matches in India. With the ICC’s final decision awaited, Bangladesh may be replaced by Scotland in the tournament. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has expressed support for its position and called on other cricket boards worldwide to back Bangladesh.
Former PCB chairman Najam Sethi, speaking on Friday, highlighted India’s influence within the ICC and supported PCB’s stance in the ongoing dispute with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). The issue arose after BCB insisted on hosting their T20 World Cup matches in Sri Lanka rather than India. The ICC rejected Bangladesh’s request, prompting Pakistan to back Bangladesh’s concerns by reportedly sending a supportive email to the ICC. However, during the ICC board voting, no other nation except Pakistan supported Bangladesh.
Sethi also endorsed PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi’s approach, expressing confidence in his understanding of the sport and the complexities involved. He stated, “Bangladesh has decided to boycott the World Cup. It remains to be seen what PCB decides. Mohsin Naqvi understands the game well and considers all aspects carefully. Whatever decision he makes will be the right one.”
Calling for global solidarity, Sethi urged cricket boards worldwide to join Bangladesh’s cause. He suggested that united opposition might compel the ICC to look beyond India’s dominance and reaffirm its role as an international governing body. If other countries support Bangladesh after Pakistan’s lead, the ICC may have to reconsider its position.
With less than two weeks remaining before the T20 World Cup, the deadlock between ICC and BCB continues. The controversy intensified after BCCI instructed Kolkata Knight Riders to release Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from the IPL. Following his removal, BCB took a firm stand against sending their team to India. The Bangladesh government banned IPL broadcast in the country. Citing security concerns, BCB formally requested ICC to relocate World Cup group matches outside India. The ICC did not accept this request, leading BCB to finalize its decision to boycott matches held in India. ICC is expected to soon announce Scotland as Bangladesh’s replacement.
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