Ireland Rejects Bangladesh’s Request to Swap T20 World Cup Groups with ICC
The ongoing discourse regarding Bangladesh’s participation in the T20 World Cup 2026 has taken a significant turn. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has officially proposed a group swap with Ireland to the International Cricket Council (ICC).
Bangladesh’s Proposal to Swap Groups with Ireland
During a recent meeting, the BCB expressed concerns about the safety of their team and stakeholders if their matches were held in India. They suggested relocating all of their group-stage games to Sri Lanka. This move is viewed as a way to ensure the safety and security of Bangladeshi fans and media.
Cricket Ireland’s Response
Cricket Ireland (CI) has firmly rejected the idea of a group swap. They emphasized that they have received “definitive assurances” regarding their match schedule. An official from CI confirmed that they will be competing in all their matches in Sri Lanka, as planned.
Current Group Placements
Here’s a breakdown of the group placements for both teams:
- Group B (Ireland): Australia, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, Oman.
- Group C (Bangladesh): West Indies, Italy, England, Nepal.
While Ireland is set to play in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh’s matches are still scheduled in Kolkata and Mumbai.
Concerns Over Safety and Security
During discussions, the BCB reiterated their unwillingness to travel to India. They shared insights from the Bangladesh Government regarding safety concerns. The BCB emphasized the need for a safe environment for players and supporters alike.
Despite the professional and constructive nature of the discussions, the aspiration to alter groups has not materialized. The ICC and all parties involved continue to evaluate the situation closely.
