Bangladesh has decided not to play its scheduled matches of the upcoming T20 World Cup in India, citing serious concerns over the safety of its players. The tournament, set to be held from February 7 to March 8, will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. Bangladesh was originally scheduled to play three group-stage matches in Kolkata next month.
In an official statement, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) said the decision was taken after carefully reviewing the current situation and following advice from the Bangladesh government. The board stated that, under present conditions, it would not be safe for the national team to travel to India. As a result, the BCB has formally requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) to shift all of Bangladesh’s matches to a venue outside India, preferably Sri Lanka.
Tensions between India and Bangladesh have risen in recent weeks following a violent incident in Bangladesh’s Mymensingh district. A Hindu factory worker, Dipu Chandra Das, was beaten and set on fire by a mob over alleged remarks about Prophet Muhammad. The incident led to protests near Bangladesh’s High Commission in New Delhi and further strained already sensitive diplomatic relations.
Another major factor influencing the decision was the release of Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from his Indian Premier League (IPL) team. Rahman, who had been bought by Kolkata Knight Riders for ₹92 crore, was released at the request of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). This move raised alarm within the BCB, prompting an emergency meeting.
Bangladesh officials questioned how the team could feel safe traveling to India when one of their top players was unable to play there despite having a valid contract. Sports adviser Asif Nazrul openly supported the withdrawal and criticised what he described as unfair treatment by Indian cricket authorities.
Bangladesh was set to face teams like West Indies, England, Italy, and Nepal in India during the group stage. With their withdrawal, the ICC will now need to decide whether to relocate these matches or make alternative arrangements.
This development highlights how political tensions and security concerns can impact international sports, reminding the world that cricket often reflects realities beyond the field.
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