ICC Security Assessment Finds No Direct Risk To Bangladesh Squad
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially stated that its security assessment does not identify any specific or heightened threat against the Bangladesh cricket team ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 in India. According to the assessment shared with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), risk levels at the venues where Bangladesh are scheduled to play are either low to moderate or low to nil, which are standard classifications for major international sporting events and not a basis to relocate matches.
The tournament is set to begin on February 7, 2026, with Bangladesh slated to play their first three group-stage matches in Kolkata and another match in Mumbai.
Bangladesh’s Security Concerns And ICC’s Response
The issue surfaced after Bangladesh’s sports adviser Asif Nazrul publicly claimed that an ICC security communication outlined potential security issues linked to the inclusion of pace bowler Mustafizur Rahman in the squad, concerns about supporters wearing Bangladesh jerseys in India, and the timing of Bangladesh’s national elections. Nazrul argued that these factors would make it untenable for the team to participate in India.
However, the ICC has denied these assertions, describing them as misinterpretations of routine scenario planning rather than factual risk conclusions. The governing body emphasised that its independent experts found no specific or direct threat to the team, officials, or match venues in India. The ICC also reiterated that its assessment does not set conditions on player selections or fan behaviour.
Relocation Request And Ongoing Dialogue
Despite the ICC’s assessment, the Bangladesh Cricket Board has formally requested that their matches be relocated outside India, citing security concerns in the interest of the team’s safety. The board is reported to be awaiting an official response from the ICC on this request.
Meanwhile, the ICC has maintained that the official match schedule is final, and all participating teams are expected to fulfil their tournament obligations unless a formal agreement for changes is reached.
Wider Context And Tensions Between Boards
The security debate comes amid broader tensions, including the removal of Mustafizur Rahman from the Indian Premier League (IPL) squad on BCCI instructions — a decision that catalysed the current dispute and led to the Bangladesh government banning IPL broadcasts domestically.
With less than a month left for the tournament’s commencement, cricket authorities and boards continue discussions on how to address the concerns, balancing competitive commitments with diplomatic sensitivities.
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