The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has told the International Cricket Council (ICC) that it supports Bangladesh’s decision not to play its T20 World Cup matches in India.
The reason given is security and political concerns in the region.
This information came out just one day before an important ICC meeting, where a final decision is expected on Bangladesh’s participation and match venues.
What Is the Issue?
Bangladesh is scheduled to play four group-stage matches of the T20 World Cup in India. However, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and the Bangladesh government have refused to send the team to India.
They have asked that their matches be shifted to Sri Lanka, which is a co-host of the tournament.
PCB’s Support to Bangladesh
- PCB sent a formal letter to the ICC
- The letter supports Bangladesh’s stand
- It mentions political instability and security risks
- All ICC Board members were copied on the letter
- This was reported by ESPNcricinfo
PCB has not made any public statement, but sources say Bangladesh’s government requested Pakistan’s support.
Scheduled Matches: Bangladesh
| Match Type | Planned Venue | City |
|---|---|---|
| Group Match 1 | Eden Gardens | Kolkata |
| Group Match 2 | Eden Gardens | Kolkata |
| Group Match 3 | Eden Gardens | Kolkata |
| Group Match 4 | Wankhede Stadium | Mumbai |
Bangladesh wants all these matches moved to Sri Lanka.
ICC vs Bangladesh: No Agreement Yet
- ICC wants the tournament to go as planned
- Bangladesh says it will not travel to India
- Several meetings have already taken place
- A recent meeting was held in Dhaka
- No solution has been reached so far
The ICC Board meeting is expected to take a final call on this issue.
Pakistan’s Own Arrangement
Pakistan is already playing under a hybrid model:
- Pakistan will play all its matches in Sri Lanka
- This agreement is in place with:
- Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)
- ICC
- The agreement runs until 2027
How Did the Crisis Start?
The situation became worse after this incident:
- Kolkata Knight Riders released Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman
- The release followed a directive from the BCCI
- The directive referred to “recent developments”
After this:
- Bangladesh banned the broadcast of the IPL
- BCB officially informed the ICC that it won’t play in India
Key Points at a Glance
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Supporting Board | Pakistan Cricket Board |
| Main Issue | Security & political concerns |
| Bangladesh’s Demand | Move matches to Sri Lanka |
| ICC’s Position | Stick to original schedule |
| Final Decision | Pending ICC Board meeting |
The T20 World Cup faces a major challenge as Bangladesh refuses to play in India and now has Pakistan’s support. With both sides firm on their stand, the ICC’s upcoming meeting will be crucial for deciding the future of Bangladesh’s participation and match venues.
