Tensions are escalating between the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and the International Cricket Council (ICC) regarding the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. Bangladesh has decided not to play matches in India and plans to boycott the upcoming World Cup. Bangladesh's sports advisor, Asif Nazrul, stated clearly after meeting with the players that the ICC hasn't been fair to them, and Bangladesh will not be pressured to play in India.
In a provocative statement, Asif Nazrul said, 'We will not bow down. If Bangladesh doesn't participate in the World Cup, the world should understand the consequences. We cannot compromise on the safety of our players.' Due to this stance, the BCB has also clashed with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
The ICC had given Bangladesh a clear ultimatum that the T20 World Cup venue would not be changed from India. Despite this, the BCB remains firm on its decision. Even after meeting with the players and the board, the stance of not touring India has not changed.
Bangladesh Has Forgotten Old Favors
Today, Bangladesh cricket stands at a significant place, primarily due to India's and BCCI's contributions. Yet, current attitudes suggest that Bangladesh may have forgotten this support. In 1998, when Bangladesh wasn't even a full ICC member, then ICC President and former BCCI Chief Jagmohan Dalmiya made a groundbreaking decision. He chose to host the ICC KnockOut tournament in Bangladesh. This event at Dhaka's Bangabandhu National Stadium gave Bangladesh its first recognition in international cricket. Although South Africa defeated West Indies to win the title, the true victory was for Bangladesh cricket.
Bangladesh became an associate member of the ICC in 1977 but had to wait 23 long years to gain Test status. In the 1999 World Cup, Bangladesh surprised the world by defeating Scotland and then Pakistan. These victories strengthened their claim, but decisive support came once again from India and the BCCI. Jagmohan Dalmiya openly advocated for Bangladesh's Test status in the ICC. Alongside India's support, Pakistan and Sri Lanka were also in favor, while England and Australia opposed. Finally, in June 2000, the ICC unanimously granted Bangladesh Test status.
First Test Match Against India
In November 2000, Bangladesh played its debut Test match against India in Dhaka. This match was historic for Bangladesh cricket and coincidentally was Sourav Ganguly's first Test as captain. Bangladesh had a strong start with 400 runs in the first innings; however, the experienced Indian team won the match by 9 wickets. The BCCI has always supported the Bangladesh Cricket Board. Regular bilateral series have been played between India and Bangladesh.
Now, with Bangladesh taking a firm stand against India on the T20 World Cup, it raises a legitimate question: Has Bangladesh cricket forgotten its past and India's support? The collision between ICC, BCB, and the Bangladesh government won't be limited to cricket alone. It could significantly impact global cricket politics...
