BCB seeks Sri Lanka shift as ICC explores Indian venues for T20 World Cup
DHAKA: The uncertainty over Bangladesh’s venues for the upcoming T20 World Cup has deepened, with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) appearing locked in a standoff.
With just over three weeks to go before the tournament begins, there is still no clarity on whether Bangladesh will travel to India for its scheduled matches. The BCB has formally requested that the ICC move all its matches to Sri Lanka, citing player safety concerns amid ongoing political tensions between India and Bangladesh.
Sources indicate that while the ICC is exploring alternative venues, these are unlikely to be in Sri Lanka, contrary to the BCB’s preference. Officials from the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) and Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) have reportedly been approached by the ICC and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding the possibility of hosting Bangladesh’s matches in Chennai and Thiruvananthapuram. Both associations are said to have expressed willingness to accommodate the fixtures, with Chepauk Stadium already scheduled to host seven World Cup games, including a potential India–Australia ‘Super 8’ clash.
TNCA officials have reportedly assured that hosting additional matches will not be an issue, given the availability of eight pitches. Under the current schedule, Bangladesh, drawn in Group C, are set to play their first three group matches in Kolkata — against West Indies on 7 February, Italy on 9 February and England on 14 February — before concluding their group stage against Nepal in Mumbai on 17 February. Following the BCCI’s instruction to IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders to release fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from its squad, the BCB has raised security concerns over travelling to India and has formally requested a venue change twice.
The ICC is yet to provide a formal response, which is expected on Monday, 12 January. However, with the tournament just weeks away, the likelihood of relocating Bangladesh’s matches to Sri Lanka remains low due to logistical challenges. Sports Desk
