Overview:
When instructions were given to the BCB and players, the response was surprising. As reported by PTI, the players chose to remain quiet, mindful of the recent controversies.
Bangladesh’s chances of taking part in the T20 World Cup 2026 are over. On Thursday, Asif Nazrul, Bangladesh’s sports advisor, directed the Bangladesh Cricket Board and its players to refrain from traveling to India due to security threats. This decision essentially marks Bangladesh’s withdrawal, with the ICC set to announce Scotland as their replacement.
This situation could have been avoided. Bangladesh, a country with a deep love for cricket, has always brought excitement to international competitions. However, political tensions and external pressures have now created a major challenge for the country’s cricketing prospects. Their chances of participating in the T20 World Cup were already in doubt, especially after the BCCI ordered Kolkata Knight Riders to release Mustafizur Rahman, following reports of Hindu killings in Bangladesh. When the ICC gave the Bangladesh Cricket Board just 24 hours to make a decision, players were hoping for government support.
When instructions were given to the BCB and players, the response was surprising. As reported by PTI, the players chose to remain quiet, mindful of the recent controversies. Tamim Iqbal, a central figure in Bangladesh cricket, was accused by former BCB official M Nazmul Islam of being an Indian agent for advising the board to think carefully about traveling to India. This remark led to widespread anger among the players, and although Nazmul resigned afterward, the insult had a lingering effect.
“During meeting with Asif Nazrul, the government advisor did most of the talking, with Bulbul Bhai speaking occasionally. The players mostly stayed quiet. Senior players believe that if someone as respected as Tamim Iqbal can be disrespected, they too could face even more severe criticism,” a source told PTI on the condition of anonymity.
Bangladesh is experiencing a turbulent period with T20 World Cup preparations underway, while national elections are set to take place on February 12, just five days into the ICC event. According to PTI, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president and former cricketer Animul Islam is visibly frustrated. As the first player from Bangladesh to score a Test century, he is particularly upset to see the national cricket scene disrupted during such a pivotal time.
“Bulbul Bhai was the ICC’s Game Development Officer for a decade before rejoining the Bangladesh Cricket Board. He is well-acquainted with everyone at the ICC, but at the final board meeting, he found himself isolated. Apart from symbolic backing from Pakistan, no one else supported him. Even Sri Lanka Cricket, their usual ally, did not stand by them,” the source revealed.