Bangladesh Ask ICC to Play All T20 World Cup Matches in Sri Lanka

"India’s cricket board has indicated that shifting matches at this stage would not be easy."

Bangladesh has formally asked the International Cricket Council (ICC) to allow all of its matches in the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup to be played in Sri Lanka instead of India.

The request was made by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) following concerns over player safety and security. These concerns were raised after recent tensions involving Bangladeshi players in India, including issues linked to the Indian Premier League.

The T20 World Cup will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka. Bangladesh is currently scheduled to play its group-stage matches in Indian cities, but the board believes Sri Lanka would be a safer and more comfortable option for the team.

Bangladesh’s government officials have also supported the move, stating that the team should not be forced to play in conditions where safety cannot be fully guaranteed.

The ICC has confirmed it has received the request and is reviewing the situation. However, shifting matches could be challenging due to logistics, scheduling, and broadcasting arrangements. India’s cricket board has indicated that any late changes would be difficult to manage.

A final decision from the ICC is expected in the coming weeks.