ICC may shift Bangladesh's T20 World Cup matches to Sri Lanka

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) remains firm on its decision not to play its 2026 T20 World Cup matches in India, citing security concerns, and has requested that its fixtures be moved to Sri Lanka.

The final decision, however, depends largely on the stance of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

On Tuesday (January 13), a Zoom meeting between the International Cricket Council (ICC) and BCB was held to finalise the tournament schedule. ICC reportedly proposed holding matches in comparatively safer Indian venues to persuade Bangladesh to play, but BCB officials rejected the offer, reiterating their demand for Sri Lanka as an alternative host.

In a statement, BCB said ensuring the safety and welfare of players, officials, and staff is its top priority, and discussions with ICC on the issue are ongoing.

Earlier, on January 4, BCB formally informed ICC that it could not play in India due to security risks. On January 8, in response to ICC’s request, the board submitted detailed reports, videos, and news clippings outlining the threats. ICC’s security department has acknowledged these risks, noting that sensitive venues like Kolkata may pose dangers to Bangladeshi supporters, including potential harassment of fans wearing national jerseys.

While ICC has suggested relocating Bangladesh’s matches to safer Indian venues, BCB has declined, prompting ICC to explore moving the games to Sri Lanka. Discussions are also underway about shifting Bangladesh from Group C to Group B, though this would involve logistical adjustments for other teams.

ICC sources said any venue change would require board approval. If BCCI does not object, Bangladesh’s matches could potentially be hosted in Sri Lanka.