According to a Times of India report, the government is fully aware of the developments and will “act whenever required.” Bangladesh has formally requested to shift its World Cup matches out of India to Sri Lanka, but the ICC has yet to respond after initially denying the request.
With Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government responsible for hosting the event, sources say authorities will adhere to the established sports policy of welcoming and ensuring the safety of all participating nations.
BCCI: Bangladesh Must Take First Step
A BCCI source stated that any decision regarding Bangladesh pulling out or relocating its matches must first come from the Dhaka government. “Once their government makes a clear stand or takes a final decision, only then will Indian authorities react,” the source told TOI.
Security Assurances from India
Bangladesh’s concerns reportedly stem from rising anti-Muslim sentiment on Indian social media following the mob lynching of Dipu Chandra Das in Bangladesh. The BCB has also expressed unease after star pacer Mustafizur Rahman was ruled out of the IPL by the BCCI.
Addressing these concerns, a BCCI official said, “As for the Bangladesh cricket team, there will be full security measures in place. The government’s stance has always been to welcome every nation participating in the event. The ball is in their court regarding whether they want to come or not. The decision is entirely theirs.”
Bangladesh Sends Second Letter to ICC
In a recent development, the Bangladesh Cricket Board sent a second formal letter to the ICC, reiterating its refusal to play in India and requesting a response within 48 hours.
With the T20 World Cup 2026 scheduled to begin on February 7, any decision by the ICC will significantly impact both the BCCI and the Bangladesh cricket team, given Dhaka’s firm position on the matter.
