Bangladesh has once again declined to send its national team to India for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, deepening uncertainty around the tournament’s logistics. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has formally informed the International Cricket Council (ICC) of its decision through a detailed written response, according to officials familiar with the matter.
Also Read: ICC Rejects Bangladesh Request to Move T20 World Cup Matches from India
The latest communication follows repeated inquiries from the ICC, which has been seeking clarity on Bangladesh’s participation if matches are held in India. This time, however, the BCB’s stance appears firmer and more thoroughly documented.
Detailed Letter Sent to the ICC
Sources say the BCB submitted a comprehensive and documented reply addressing every question raised by the ICC. The letter reportedly goes beyond team safety alone. It also covers the security of media personnel, travelling supporters, and other stakeholders connected to the event.
According to the BCB, ensuring the safety of all related individuals is a core requirement for any international tournament. The board argues that, under current circumstances, such guarantees cannot be fully assured in India.
As a result, Bangladesh believes participation would carry unacceptable risks.
Security and Visa Concerns Highlighted
In its response, the BCB reportedly highlighted two major issues: security risks and visa complications. Officials believe these challenges remain unresolved and could affect the smooth movement of players, officials, and journalists.
Visa delays and uncertainties have previously affected cricket tours in the region. For large ICC events, teams usually require streamlined processes well in advance. The BCB claims that such assurances are currently lacking.
Therefore, the board says it cannot responsibly commit to travel.
Government Position Reinforces BCB Stance
Importantly, the BCB has attached Bangladesh government statements to its letter. These documents reportedly outline the official position advising against travel to India due to security concerns.
The letter stresses that the BCB is bound to follow government directives. As a national sporting body, it cannot override official security advisories.
Officials argue that this makes the decision non-negotiable at this stage.
Recent Incident Adds to Fears
The BCB also referred to recent developments that have intensified concerns. According to sources, extremist threats in India recently led an IPL franchise, Kolkata Knight Riders, to drop Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from its squad.
This decision was reportedly taken following advice from Indian cricket authorities. While details remain sensitive, the episode has caused alarm within Bangladesh’s cricketing circles.
The BCB believes this incident reflects a broader security environment that could place players at risk.
Bangladesh Says India Is Not Safe At Present
Following that episode, BCB officials publicly stated that India is not safe for Bangladeshi players under current conditions. They reiterated that the team would not take unnecessary risks, regardless of the tournament’s importance.
The Bangladesh government has echoed this position. Officials have clearly stated that permission will not be granted for travel to India for the T20 World Cup.
This unified stance has strengthened the BCB’s position significantly.
ICC Faces a Critical Decision
With Bangladesh standing firm, attention now shifts to the ICC. The global body must decide how to proceed, especially if other teams raise similar concerns.
The ICC typically works closely with host nations to ensure security standards. Past tournaments have included extensive risk assessments and contingency planning.
However, Bangladesh’s response is described as more robust than before, backed by official documents and government instructions.
What Happens Next?
For now, the matter rests with the ICC. Options could include revised security guarantees, neutral venues, or alternative hosting arrangements.
Until then, Bangladesh’s position remains unchanged. Officials insist player safety comes before competition.
As preparations for the T20 World Cup continue, the situation highlights the complex balance between global sport, politics, and security in modern international cricket.
