A dramatic turn of events has put Bangladesh cricket team on the brink of missing the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. After failing to meet the deadline set by the International Cricket Council, Bangladesh now risk being replaced by Scotland cricket team, according to reports.
With the tournament less than three weeks away, the situation has quickly escalated into one of the biggest off-field controversies in recent World Cup history.
Why Bangladesh Are in Trouble
The issue began when Bangladesh raised concerns about playing their group-stage matches in India, citing political tension and security worries. Their scheduled games were set for venues in Kolkata and Mumbai. The Bangladesh Cricket Board requested that these matches either be shifted to Sri Lanka or that their group be swapped with another team.
After detailed discussions, the ICC rejected the request, stating that independent security assessments found no verified threat to the safety of the Bangladesh team in India. The risk level was described as low to moderate, and the original schedule was retained.
ICC Deadline Missed
Following a board meeting on January 21, the ICC gave Bangladesh 24 hours to confirm participation under the existing schedule. That deadline passed without an official confirmation.
While reports suggest Bangladesh sought further discussion through dispute mechanisms, the ICC has now begun preparing contingency plans to ensure the tournament remains on track.
Why Scotland Are the Chosen Replacement
Scotland have emerged as the leading replacement option due to ICC ranking rules. As the highest-ranked non-qualified team, they are first in line if a qualified nation withdraws.
Sources indicate that Scotland’s players have already been contacted and visa processes have begun. If confirmed, Scotland would take Bangladesh’s place in Group C, with minimal changes required to the match schedule.
Also see: PCB Supports Bangladesh Decision Not to Play T20 World Cup Matches in India
Group C – Possible Update
| Team Status | Group C Teams |
|---|---|
| Confirmed | England, West Indies, Italy, Nepal |
| Under Review | Bangladesh |
| Replacement Ready | Scotland |
The ICC aims to avoid major scheduling disruptions, which is why a straight team replacement is preferred.
Bangladesh Response So Far
Bangladesh officials have maintained that they are eager to play in the World Cup, but not in India. The board has accused the ICC of inconsistency in handling security-related concerns and insists discussions are still ongoing.
However, with the tournament approaching fast, the ICC appears focused on finalizing a lineup rather than reopening venue debates.
What Happens Next?
With only days left before final team confirmations, the ICC is expected to make a formal decision soon. If Bangladesh are officially withdrawn, Scotland will be slotted into the tournament immediately.
This unfolding situation has left Bangladesh fans anxious and Scottish supporters hopeful, as global cricket watches how the ICC balances governance, security, and tournament integrity.
