Bangladesh told to play in India or risk forfeiting points
January 7, 2026: The International Cricket Council has rejected the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s request to relocate its T20 World Cup 2026 matches from India to Sri Lanka and has warned of serious consequences if the team refuses to travel. ICC sources said the BCB was informed during a virtual meeting that Bangladesh is obliged to play its matches in India and could forfeit points if it opts out.
The controversy erupted after Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman was released by Kolkata Knight Riders ahead of IPL 2026 following directions from the BCCI. In response the BCB banned IPL broadcasts in Bangladesh and cited security concerns while seeking a venue shift. However the ICC chaired by Jay Shah reportedly dismissed the request stating no relocation was possible at this stage.
Bangladesh is scheduled to begin its Group C campaign in Kolkata against West Indies Italy and England before travelling to Mumbai to face Nepal. The BCB later held an emergency meeting and reiterated its decision not to travel to India under current conditions citing safety concerns and government advice though no official notification has yet been issued by the ICC or BCCI.