ICC drops Bangladesh from T20 World Cup, Scotland set to replace them
New Delhi: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has decided to exclude Bangladesh from the upcoming T20 World Cup after the team refused to travel to India, citing security concerns. In a major development, the ICC has informed that Scotland will be given an opportunity to participate in the tournament in Bangladesh’s place.
According to senior ICC sources, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) failed to communicate its final decision within the 24-hour deadline set by the global governing body. “Despite being given a clear window to confirm participation, the BCB did not officially inform the ICC. An email was sent to BCB president Aminul Islam Bulbul, following which the decision was taken,” sources said.
ICC officials also expressed displeasure over the BCB’s conduct, stating that holding a press conference in Dhaka before officially informing the ICC amounted to a breach of protocol. “This was considered a violation of sporting etiquette, and hence it was clearly communicated that Bangladesh would be replaced,” the source added.
Bangladesh had earlier requested that its T20 World Cup matches be shifted to Sri Lanka, citing security concerns in India following reports of attacks and killings of minorities in Bangladesh, which had escalated diplomatic and sporting tensions. However, the ICC rejected this request, assuring full security arrangements for all participating teams in India.
The issue had further intensified after the Indian government reportedly advised the BCCI to drop Bangladeshi players from the IPL, leading to Mustafizur Rahman being released by Kolkata Knight Riders. Despite repeated assurances from the ICC, Bangladesh’s sports ministry continued to raise security concerns and advised the team against travelling to India.
Meanwhile, the Scotland Cricket Board has stated that its participation is not yet officially confirmed, though indications suggest Scotland may compete in Group C. If finalized, Scotland is expected to play against West Indies, Italy, England and Nepal on February 7, 9 and 17.
The ICC is expected to make a formal announcement soon, bringing clarity to the tournament lineup ahead of the marquee event.
