Mon Jan 12 20:29:05 UTC 2026: ### T20 World Cup 2026 Row: Bangladesh Objects to Playing Group Stage Matches in India Amid Security Concerns

The Story:

Bangladesh has raised objections to playing its group-stage matches of the T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled in India, citing security concerns. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) reportedly sent two letters to the International Cricket Council (ICC) expressing their reservations. Asif Nazrul, the Bangladesh government sports advisor, claimed the BCB received a letter from the ICC’s security team outlining potential security threats. However, the ICC has refuted these claims, stating that their independent risk assessments found the overall security risk for the tournament in India to be low to moderate.

Key Points:

  • Bangladesh doesn’t want to play its four group-stage matches in India.
  • Asif Nazrul claims the ICC security team identified increased security threats if Mustafiz is included in the team, if supporters wear the national jersey, and due to upcoming national elections.
  • The ICC denies these claims and states that their security assessment rates the risk as low to moderate.
  • The ICC states that there is no specific or direct threat to the Bangladesh team, team officials, or match venues in India.
  • The ICC clarified that scenario planning should not be misinterpreted as actual risk.

Key Takeaways:

  • There is a clear disagreement between the Bangladesh government representatives and the ICC regarding the security situation for the T20 World Cup 2026 in India.
  • Bangladesh’s concerns seem specific and centered around potential issues affecting their team and supporters.
  • The ICC is trying to reassure stakeholders about the safety and security of the tournament in India.
  • The timing, close to Bangladesh’s national elections, adds a layer of political sensitivity to the situation.
  • Regardless of security levels, the dispute itself casts a shadow on the upcoming tournament.

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