Dhaka, Jan 23 (.) Bangladesh has officially ruled out travelling to India for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, citing what it described as a “genuine security risk” arising from the prevailing regional political situation.
The decision was confirmed by Bangladesh’s Sports Adviser Asif Nazrul, who said the safety of players, officials, fans and journalists was non-negotiable and that the call had been taken at the highest level of government.
He asserted that the decision rested solely with the Bangladesh government and could not be dictated by any external body.
Nazrul’s statement effectively overruled the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s efforts to negotiate with the International Cricket Council and came a day after the ICC issued an ultimatum asking Bangladesh to confirm its participation or face replacement in the tournament.
Addressing concerns over possible financial penalties and sporting consequences, the Sports Adviser said national dignity and human safety outweighed all other considerations.
He urged the public to consider the cost of participating in an event under circumstances that could endanger lives, arguing that such a compromise would amount to a greater loss.
The ICC had earlier warned that Bangladesh could be replaced if it refused to travel to India, with Scotland named as the potential replacement.
During a board meeting on Wednesday, the ICC voted by majority to proceed with contingency plans should Bangladesh not comply with the original schedule.
The meeting was attended by representatives of all full member nations, including ICC Chair Jay Shah, BCB President Aminul Islam and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board was given a final 24-hour window to consult with the government and confirm its position. However, the government’s announcement has now made Bangladesh’s stance clear.
Despite the hard position, Nazrul said Bangladesh remained hopeful of a diplomatic resolution, including the possibility of a venue change.
He reiterated the country’s demand to host its matches at a neutral venue such as Sri Lanka, pointing to past precedents where international matches were relocated due to security concerns.
The standoff centres on Bangladesh’s refusal to play its group matches in Indian cities such as Kolkata and Mumbai, citing political instability and safety issues. The Pakistan Cricket Board has formally backed Bangladesh’s concerns, writing to the ICC in support of its position.
With the ICC deadline approaching, uncertainty continues over Bangladesh’s participation in the tournament, even as Dhaka maintains that player safety will not be compromised under any circumstances.
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