The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has officially requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) to move its T20 World Cup 2026 matches from India to Sri Lanka. The request follows security concerns after Mustafizur Rahman was released by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) during the IPL. This raised tensions between the BCB and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Cricket fans are gearing up to witness matches across India and Sri Lanka for the 2026 T20 World Cup. Those eager to experience the action live should Buy T20 World Cup 2026 Tickets early to secure their spots. Fans can also check Bangladesh Match Tickets Availability at their favourite venues as demand continues to grow.
The 2026 T20 World Cup is set to begin on February 7, but the BCB is now seeking an alternative venue. The group-stage matches were originally scheduled in Kolkata and Mumbai. The BCB claims that security risks have increased following Rahman’s release, and they are not confident about the safety of their players in India.
The ICC has not agreed to the full shift to Sri Lanka. They are considering moving Bangladesh’s matches to different venues within India. The situation remains tense, with both cricket and diplomatic considerations at play.
T20 World Cup 2026: Why Did Bangladesh Request a Venue Change?
The BCB raised concerns after Mustafizur Rahman was released from his IPL contract by KKR, following instructions from the BCCI. The BCB believes this move was politically motivated and has caused a rise in tensions between India and Bangladesh. As a result, the BCB has officially requested that Bangladesh’s matches in the T20 World Cup 2026 be moved to Sri Lanka.
The BCB outlined security concerns in their petition to the ICC. Additionally, the Bangladesh government is involved and has expressed a need for direct talks with the Indian government to ensure the safety of players. The BCB has made it clear that no final decision can be made without government approval.
ICC’s Response: India Remains the Preferred Host
The ICC has indicated that it is unlikely to approve a full relocation to Sri Lanka. Shifting the tournament’s venues so close to the start would be a logistical challenge. Instead, the ICC is considering two alternative venues within India: Chennai and Thiruvananthapuram.
The Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) has confirmed that Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium is available for extra matches. The Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) has also shown interest in hosting games in Thiruvananthapuram. Both cities have suitable facilities for international fixtures.
Given the limited time, this seems to be the most feasible option for the ICC. Although there was initial resistance from the BCB T20 World Cup 2026 regarding Chennai. It is expected that they may have to reconsider, especially if the alternative venues in India offer the required security assurances.
Bangladesh Government’s Role and Direct Talks with India
The Bangladesh government is also involved in the discussions. They want direct communication with the Indian government to address the security concerns. This makes the situation even more complex, as any decision must be made jointly between the BCB and the government. Government approval is critical before Bangladesh can travel to India.
The BCB has made it clear that it will not approve the team’s travel to India unless guarantees about player safety are provided. However, Bangladeshi officials have already worked in India without incident. For instance, Sharfuddoula Saikat, a Bangladeshi umpire, officiated in the India vs New Zealand ODI series and will likely be part of the T20 World Cup 2026 officiating panel.
This example may help assuage the BCB’s fears and pave the way for the ICC to finalise the venue change within India, especially if the Indian government provides the required security assurances.
ICC’s Likely Solution: Chennai and Thiruvananthapuram for Bangladesh Matches
The ICC is expected to confirm Chennai and Thiruvananthapuram as alternatives for Bangladesh’s group-stage matches. They are unlikely to approve a full move to Sri Lanka. The Tamil Nadu Cricket Association and Kerala Cricket Association are prepared to host these games.
Chennai has been seen as a potential venue for several matches due to the availability of multiple pitches at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Likewise, Thiruvananthapuram offers another suitable location, with good facilities and a promising cricketing atmosphere. The decision will be made soon, as there is less than a month before the tournament starts. Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup 2026 matches are scheduled as follows:
- Bangladesh Vs West Indies: February 7, Kolkata
- Bangladesh Vs Italy: February 9, Kolkata
- Bangladesh Vs England: February 14, Kolkata
- Bangladesh Vs Nepal: February 17, Mumbai
With less than four weeks to go, the ICC needs to finalise these venues quickly to avoid disruptions. Chennai and Thiruvananthapuram are the preferred alternatives that could offer a quick resolution to the issue.
What to Expect Next: ICC’s Final Decision and Bangladesh T20 World Cup Matches
In the coming days, the ICC will likely confirm Chennai and Thiruvananthapuram as replacements for Kolkata and Mumbai. The Bangladesh government’s approval is essential before any venue change is finalised. The next steps will largely depend on the resolution of security concerns.
The ICC wants to resolve this issue quickly. Teams are expected to arrive in early February for practice sessions. Once the venue issue is settled, the tournament can proceed as planned. The coming days will be crucial for Bangladesh, as they will decide if their matches will stay in India or if the venues will be changed. The situation remains fluid, but fans can expect a resolution soon.
Key points to keep in mind:
- The ICC is considering Chennai and Thiruvananthapuram as alternatives.
- Direct talks between the Bangladesh government and the Indian government are needed.
- The decision must be made swiftly, as the tournament begins soon.
We are offering 2026 T20 World Cup tickets! Cricket fans can now secure their seats through our trusted online marketplace. Xchangetickets.com is your most reliable source for booking T20 World Cup Tickets and more. Sign up for ticket alerts and don’t miss your chance to watch the world’s best teams battle it out live!
2026 T20 World Cup FAQ’s:
1: Where will Bangladesh play their T20 World Cup 2026 matches?
Chennai and Thiruvananthapuram are likely alternatives to Kolkata and Mumbai. Get your tickets now to secure a seat at these venues.
2: Why did Bangladesh request a venue change?
Bangladesh raised security concerns after Mustafizur Rahman’s IPL release. Book your tickets today to watch Bangladesh live despite any changes.
3: When are Bangladesh’s group-stage matches?
- Vs West Indies: Feb 7
- Vs Italy: Feb 9
- Vs England: Feb 14
Don’t wait—grab your tickets early to catch all the action.
4: Can I still buy tickets if venues change?
Yes, tickets remain valid for new venues. Secure your tickets now to avoid missing Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup 2026 matches.
5: How can I stay updated on Bangladesh match venues?
Follow ICC and BCB updates for the latest info. Sign up for ticket alerts to get instant updates and book fast.
Leave a Reply