Sports

BCB refuses India tour over security concerns

Published: 12:32, 8 January 2026

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) on Wednesday reaffirmed its decision not to send the national team to India for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, citing unresolved concerns over the safety and security of the Bangladeshi contingent.

Following a meeting with Sports Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul, BCB president Aminul Islam Bulbul told reporters that the board remains firm on its position ahead of the tournament, which is scheduled to begin on February 7. He said the issue goes beyond the players and includes the safety of team officials, support staff, journalists, sponsors and travelling fans.
Bulbul said the board has formally communicated its concerns to the International Cricket Council (ICC), stressing that ensuring the security of all members of the delegation is its top priority. He added that overseas travel by national teams requires a government order, and the BCB is therefore seeking clear guidance from the authorities before taking any further steps.
'If the security situation does not improve to a satisfactory level, we will continue to defend our position and our rights,' Bulbul said, indicating that the board is prepared for prolonged discussions with the ICC if necessary.
Sports Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul echoed the board’s stance, saying there would be no compromise on national dignity or player safety. He said Bangladesh remains eager to participate in the World Cup but only if its matches are hosted in Sri Lanka, the tournament’s other co-host nation.
'We want to play in the World Cup, but not at the cost of our cricketers’ security or our national honour,' Nazrul said, adding that the government fully supports the BCB’s position.
Earlier, the BCB issued a statement rejecting reports in sections of the international media claiming that the ICC had issued an ultimatum, warning Bangladesh to send its team to India or face forfeiture of points. The board said those reports misrepresented the ICC’s communication and described them as misleading and speculative.