Bangladesh Requests Relocation of T20 World Cup 2026 Matches from India
Bangladesh has made a formal request to relocate its matches for the T20 World Cup 2026, currently scheduled to take place in India. The decision comes amid escalating tensions between Bangladesh and India, prompting concerns for the safety of players and officials.
Background of the Request
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has announced that, given the current circumstances, the national team will not travel to India for the tournament. This sentiment reflects a growing unease following a violent incident in Bangladesh that deepened political tensions. The murder of a Hindu man accused of blasphemy has stirred significant unrest, leading to protests in both Bangladesh and India.
Player Safety Concerns
Recent developments have heightened the BCB’s concerns for the safety of its team. Mustafizur Rahman, a key player, was withdrawn from his Indian Premier League (IPL) contract with Kolkata Knight Riders at the request of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The BCB expressed its apprehensions regarding the well-being of its players and staff members.
Implications for the T20 World Cup
The T20 World Cup is set to begin on February 7, and Bangladesh is scheduled to play four matches in India, including their opener against West Indies. The ongoing political climate has led to chaotic conditions, making it essential for the ICC to address Bangladesh’s requests. Other matches involving Pakistan will be hosted in Sri Lanka due to similar tensions with India.
Recent Political Tensions
- The killing of a Hindu man in Bangladesh has escalated political disputes.
- Anti-India sentiment has increased following former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s asylum in India.
- India rejected multiple requests for her return.
The BCB underscored its commitment to prioritizing the safety of players, team officials, and stakeholders. They formally conveyed their concerns to the ICC, seeking alternative arrangements. The future of Bangladesh’s participation in the T20 World Cup now rests upon the response from cricket authorities.
Bangladesh Squad for T20 World Cup 2026
| Player Position | Player Name |
|---|---|
| Captain | Litton Das |
| Batsman | Saif Hassan |
| Batsman | Tanzid Hasan |
| Batsman | Parvez Hossain Emon |
| Batsman | Towhid Hridoy |
| Batsman | Shamim Hossain |
| Wicket-Keeper | Nurul Hasan |
| All-Rounder | Mahedi Hasan |
| Bowler | Rishad Hossain |
| Bowler | Nasum Ahmed |
| Bowler | Mustafizur Rahman |
| Bowler | Tanzim Hasan Sakib |
| Bowler | Taskin Ahmed |
| All-Rounder | Mohammad Saifuddin |
| Bowler | Shoriful Islam |
As the tournament date approaches, all eyes will remain on the ICC’s decision regarding Bangladesh’s relocation request and the implications it carries for the T20 World Cup 2026.
