No info on Scotland being approached as replacement; ICC to decide what's best for cricket: BCCI sources amid T20 WC crisis
New Delhi, Jan 21
As the International Cricket Council is expected to make a final decision on Bangladesh's participation in the 2026 men's T20 World Cup on Wednesday, BCCI sources said they have no information about Scotland being approached as a replacement if Bangladesh refuses to travel to India, adding that the global governing body "will decide what it deems best for cricket".
Bangladesh have reportedly refused to play their T20 World Cup matches in India, citing security concerns, and have asked the ICC to move their fixtures to Sri Lanka, the co-hosting nation. This follows the BCCI's direction for Kolkata Knight Riders to release pacer Mustafizur Rahman for IPL 2026 amid prevailing political tensions between the two countries.
It has also been learnt that Bangladesh suggested to the ICC that it be moved to Group B, swapping places with Ireland, which plays its group matches in Sri Lanka. However, the ICC has reportedly assured Ireland that no such move will be made.
"There is no information with us on Scotland being approached as a replacement. The ICC should decide what it deems best for cricket. Several unverified reports are doing the rounds on social media, and people should rely only on official confirmation," BCCI sources told IANS.
The ICC officials are irked by the BCB's stance, as they understand the BCB has assured them there is no security threat to Bangladesh. The ICC has also made clear to Bangladesh that if they withdraw, it will nominate a replacement team, with Scotland currently next in line based on rankings.
Scotland are the highest-ranked side and the highest-ranked team that did not qualify for the World Cup, according to various media reports. They will be the ones who can replace Bangladesh if the ICC decides to take that step.
However, with the event schedule already finalised, the ICC has reportedly been firm in its stance against changing the World Cup schedule and allowing Bangladesh to play in Sri Lanka, and has conveyed the same to the BCB during its interactions over the weekend.
— IANS
Reader Comments
As a cricket fan, this is disappointing. Political tensions shouldn't spoil the sport. The ICC needs to be firm. Changing venues and groups at the last minute sets a bad precedent. Hope they make a decision that's fair for all teams and fans.
The BCCI's response is very diplomatic. "ICC will decide what's best for cricket" – basically means they don't want to get into this mess publicly. Smart move. Let the global body handle the tough calls.
Respectfully, I think the ICC should have had clearer contingency plans. The schedule is final, and last-minute chaos isn't good for anyone – players, organizers, or us fans who have booked tickets and made plans. A bit more foresight was needed.
Feel bad for the Scottish team. They must be on an emotional rollercoaster. One day you're out, next day you might be in because of politics. Hope they get a fair shot if it comes to that. Their fans would be over the moon!
The whole issue started with Mustafizur's IPL release? Seems like a very petty reason to jeopardize a World Cup participation. BCB should think about their players and fans first. Yaar, keep cricket and politics separate.
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