The International Cricket Council (ICC) announced on Monday that it is unlikely to accept Bangladesh's request to change venues for its matches in the 2026 T20 World Cup scheduled in India. The ICC's security review report classified the threat level to the Bangladesh team as 'low'.
According to ICC-related sources, the global body's risk assessment report uncovered no significant threats that would prevent Bangladesh from participating in the tournament. Set to begin on February 7, the tournament will see Bangladesh playing four league stage matches in India.
Bangladesh may face an ICC setback
An ICC source, under anonymity, stated, 'It's crucial to highlight that the ICC's independent examination by international security experts found no threat to Bangladesh playing its scheduled matches in India.'
The source further mentioned that security risks throughout the tournament in India are rated from low to moderate, comparable to numerous significant sporting events globally.
Bangladesh's reports dismissed
The ICC's report also rejected claims by Asif Nazrul, advisor to Bangladesh's sports ministry, that the presence of Mustafizur Rahman posed heightened security risks. The report found no direct threat to Bangladesh teams or officials at any Indian venues.
An ICC source remarked, 'Based on professional advice, the risk level for Bangladesh's Kolkata and Mumbai matches is low to moderate, with no evident issues that current security arrangements cannot address.'
ICC sources assert that alterations to the existing schedule are unlikely. A source stated, 'The ICC has complete confidence in the security plans being developed in collaboration with BCCI and local authorities. India's record of hosting major international sporting events safely is well-established.'
