Dhaka,  Sunday
1 February 2026 , 11:40

Donik Barta

Bangladesh offers new proposal to ICC

reporter

Published At: 12:22:29pm, 18 January 2026

Updated At : 12:22:29pm, 18 January 2026

সংগৃহীত ছবি

ছবি: সংগৃহীত ছবি

Bangladesh has formally placed a new proposal to the International Cricket Council regarding the upcoming T20 World Cup, outlining an alternative arrangement to avoid playing its fixtures on Indian soil. During a meeting held at a hotel in Dhaka, the Bangladesh Cricket Board emphasized that political sensitivity, recent extremist pressure and visa complications have made participation in India increasingly difficult from both a security and logistical standpoint. The proposal, described as constructive and pragmatic, suggests that Bangladesh be moved to Group B, where Australia, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe are scheduled to play, and that all matches of that group be relocated to Sri Lanka. The Bangladeshi side argued that such a shift would reduce risks, maintain tournament flow and prevent unnecessary geopolitical tension surrounding the event. Officials highlighted that the reluctance to travel to India is not an impulsive reaction but a result of recent incidents that have shaped political discourse and public sentiment, including pressure that reportedly led to the exclusion of a Bangladeshi player from a major league competition. They further noted that international tournaments must ensure equitable conditions for all participating nations, and that government concerns about supporter safety, media movement and team logistics cannot be ignored. According to statements released after the meeting, the ICC delegation received the proposal in a cordial and professional atmosphere. One senior ICC official attended in person while others joined virtually due to visa issues, underscoring the complexities already associated with cross-border movement. Bangladesh stressed that reassigning groups would require minimal changes to broadcasting calendars, training schedules and venue preparation, while offering a balanced geopolitical alternative. Sri Lanka was cited as a suitable option due to its cricketing infrastructure, historical hosting experience and cultural familiarity for Bangladeshi supporters. The Bangladesh Cricket Board also reminded the ICC that shared responsibility for participant safety remains a fundamental principle of major tournaments. In their view, the proposal does not challenge the integrity of the World Cup format but rather preserves it under present circumstances. While decisions remain pending, both parties agreed to continue dialogue. Observers expect that the proposal, if evaluated seriously, may require consultation with broadcasters, security experts and the boards of participating nations. Bangladesh has indicated that firm refusal of its concerns could jeopardize participation, but that negotiation remains the preferred route to resolution. As discussions move forward, the issue has triggered broader debates within the cricketing community about the balance between competitive fairness, political neutrality and the realities of operating global sporting events in volatile environments. Bangladesh’s firm yet diplomatic stance reflects a desire to defend national dignity and ensure unhindered representation in a high-visibility world event without inflaming tensions. Though no final decision has been reached, further meetings are anticipated in the coming days as the ICC weighs logistics, diplomacy and sporting integrity before determining how to proceed.

reporter