Bangladesh will not travel to India for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 matches, Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) vice-president Shakhawat Hossain said on Tuesday (January 13). While speaking to reporters following a meeting on Tuesday, as quoted by Cricbuzz, Shakhawat said that the BCB are hoping for a positive outcome.
“We are firm in the position we have taken (regarding venue relocation). We will not change our stance even by an inch. We are not going to India,” Shakhawat said.
“We have stated our position, and they (ICC) are looking for alternatives. The path for discussion is still open,” he added.
According to Shakhawat, BCB are firm in their position.
“Of course, we are in a positive position. There isn’t much time, so we will see. Some arrangements
will be made quickly. Since the dialogue has started, let’s see what happens. But we are firm in our position,” he said, adding that both the ICC and BCB are aware time is running out.
“Yes, the time is short. They know that too. Arrangements will be made very soon. I can’t say anything more apart from the dialogue is open,” he added.
ICC urged BCB to reconsider stance
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) released a statement on Tuesday afternoon in which they stated that the International Cricket Council (ICC) has requested them to reconsider their stance of not travelling to India.
“During the discussions, the BCB reaffirmed its position regarding the decision not to travel to India, citing security concerns. The Board also reiterated its request for the ICC to consider relocating Bangladesh’s matches outside India,” BCB said in a statement.
“While the ICC highlighted that the tournament itinerary has already been announced and requested the BCB to reconsider its stance, the Board’s position remains unchanged. Both parties agreed that discussions will continue to explore possible solutions,” it said.
“The BCB remains committed to safeguarding the well-being of its players, officials and staff while engaging constructively with the ICC to address the matter,” it added.
Bangladesh’s schedule in T20 World Cup 2026
Bangladesh are scheduled to play their first three Group C matches of the T20 World Cup 2026 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata and then travel to Mumbai to take on Nepal at Wankhede Stadium on February 17.
| DATE | DAY | AGAINST | VENUE |
| February 7 | Saturday | West Indies | Eden Gardens, Kolkata |
| February 9 | Monday | Italy | Eden Gardens, Kolkata |
| February 14 | Saturday | England | Eden Gardens, Kolkata |
| February 17 | Tuesday | Nepal | Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai |
