Scotland may replace Bangladesh as uncertainty surrounds Bangladesh’s participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in India amid security concerns and political tensions. With the ICC extending the deadline for a final decision, contingency plans are in place should Bangladesh withdraw at the last moment.
ICC Extends Deadline as Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup Future Hangs in Balance
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has granted the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) one additional day to confirm its participation in the upcoming Men’s T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in India. With uncertainty persisting, Scotland may replace Bangladesh as the next eligible team based on current ICC rankings. The situation has placed tournament organisers on high alert, as any late withdrawal could disrupt fixtures and logistics.
An emergency ICC Board meeting was held via video conference on Wednesday, January 21, to address Bangladesh’s concerns. During the meeting, the ICC rejected BCB’s request to shift its group-stage matches to Sri Lanka, stating that no credible security threats were identified at Indian venues. With the deadline extended by 24 hours, Scotland may replace Bangladesh if a formal confirmation is not submitted in time.
ICC Rejects Venue Change Request After Board Vote
According to ICC sources quoted by PTI, 14 of the 16 member boards voted against Bangladesh’s relocation request. Only the BCB and Pakistan supported the proposal, while the rest backed the ICC’s stance that the tournament should proceed as scheduled. The overwhelming vote has strengthened the possibility that Scotland may replace Bangladesh should the standoff continue.
The ICC clarified that extensive security assessments were conducted and that player safety remains a top priority. However, Bangladesh has maintained its reservations, citing broader concerns beyond cricket. As contingency planning continues behind the scenes, Scotland may replace Bangladesh has become the central fallback option for the governing body.
Political Tensions and IPL Incident Deepen Crisis
BCB president Aminul Islam said he remains hopeful of a breakthrough, stating that both the players and the Bangladesh government want the team to participate. Still, he acknowledged that national considerations would play a decisive role. If no agreement is reached, Scotland may replace Bangladesh in the tournament lineup.
The crisis was triggered by the removal of pacer Mustafizur Rahman from Kolkata Knight Riders’ IPL squad following BCCI instructions. This incident, coupled with deteriorating diplomatic relations between India and Bangladesh, escalated tensions. The BCB subsequently announced it would not travel to India for matches in Kolkata and Mumbai. With the deadline looming, Scotland may replace Bangladesh is now a realistic outcome rather than speculation, and Scotland may replace Bangladesh if the deadlock remains unresolved.
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