With the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) all set to boycott the upcoming T20 World Cup in India, the International Cricket Council (ICC) is now set to assess its options. According to a strong media report on Thursday (Jan 22), BCB’s unwillingness to travel to India means the ICC will have to replace them with another team. So here’s a detailed look at which teams could replace Bangladesh in the 2026 T20 World Cup with little over two weeks to go.<h2>Who could replace Bangladesh in 2026 T20 World Cup?</h2>As things stand, Scotland remains in pole position to take Bangladesh’s place in the T20 World Cup courtesy of the ICC T20I team rankings. Scotland, currently ranked 14th in the ICC rankings, is the highest-ranked non-qualified team for the T20 World Cup. In this case, Scotland could be given a direct berth in the T20 World Cup. Scotland’s entry into the mix means Europe will have an extra team in the T20 World Cup, with England, Ireland, Italy and the Netherlands already qualified.<h2>Which teams can claim a spot?</h2>Kenya is the highest non-qualified team for the T20 World Cup 2026 from the African continent. It lost in the semifinal of the African qualifiers and later won the third-place Playoff against Tanzania. On the other hand, Bermuda is the highest non-qualified team from the Americas qualifier.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a><h2>What happened earlier?</h2>The ICC on Wednesday decided to reject Bangladesh’s request to relocate its T20 World Cup 2026 matches out of India, reaffirming that the tournament will proceed as scheduled despite Bangladesh’s threat to withdraw. The ICC, in an official statement, emphasized that the schedule would remain unchanged. This decision followed a Board meeting, held via video conference, after the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) insisted on moving its games to Sri Lanka.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;An ICC spokesperson’s statement in relation to the decision read, "Over the past several weeks, the ICC has engaged with the BCB in sustained and constructive dialogue, with the clear objective of enabling Bangladesh’s participation in the tournament. During this period, the ICC has shared detailed inputs, including independent security assessments, comprehensive venue-level security plans and formal assurances from the host authorities, all of which consistently concluded that there is no credible or verifiable threat to the safety or security of the Bangladesh team in India.”

As things stand, Scotland remains in pole position to take Bangladesh’s place in the T20 World Cup courtesy of the ICC T20I team rankings. Scotland, currently ranked 14th in the ICC rankings, is the highest-ranked non-qualified team for the T20 World Cup.

With the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) all set to boycott the upcoming T20 World Cup in India, the International Cricket Council (ICC) is now set to assess its options. According to a strong media report on Thursday (Jan 22), BCB’s unwillingness to travel to India means the ICC will have to replace them with another team. So here’s a detailed look at which teams could replace Bangladesh in the 2026 T20 World Cup with little over two weeks to go. Who could replace Bangladesh in 2026 T20 World Cup? As things stand, Scotland remains in pole position to take Bangladesh’s place in the T20 World Cup courtesy of the ICC T20I team rankings. Scotland, currently ranked 14th in the ICC rankings, is the highest-ranked non-qualified team for the T20 World Cup. In this case, Scotland could be given a direct berth in the T20 World Cup. Scotland’s entry into the mix means Europe will have an extra team in the T20 World Cup, with England, Ireland, Italy and the Netherlands already qualified. Which teams can claim a spot? Kenya is the highest non-qualified team for the T20 World Cup 2026 from the African continent. It lost in the semifinal of the African qualifiers and later won the third-place Playoff against Tanzania. On the other hand, Bermuda is the highest non-qualified team from the Americas qualifier. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli What happened earlier? The ICC on Wednesday decided to reject Bangladesh’s request to relocate its T20 World Cup 2026 matches out of India, reaffirming that the tournament will proceed as scheduled despite Bangladesh’s threat to withdraw. The ICC, in an official statement, emphasized that the schedule would remain unchanged. This decision followed a Board meeting, held via video conference, after the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) insisted on moving its games to Sri Lanka. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds An ICC spokesperson’s statement in relation to the decision read, "Over the past several weeks, the ICC has engaged with the BCB in sustained and constructive dialogue, with the clear objective of enabling Bangladesh’s participation in the tournament. During this period, the ICC has shared detailed inputs, including independent security assessments, comprehensive venue-level security plans and formal assurances from the host authorities, all of which consistently concluded that there is no credible or verifiable threat to the safety or security of the Bangladesh team in India.”

As things stand, Scotland remains in pole position to take Bangladesh’s place in the T20 World Cup courtesy of the ICC T20I team rankings. Scotland, currently ranked 14th in the ICC rankings, is the highest-ranked non-qualified team for the T20 World Cup.

No Bangladesh at 2026 T20 World Cup? Here’s who could step in

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president, Aminul Islam, is hoping for a miracle from the apex body (the ICC) as he tries to salvage Bangladesh’s place in the forthcoming 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. The ICC officials held a meeting on Wednesday (Jan 21), informing the BCB that they will replace Bangladesh with another team should they decide against travelling to India. Aminul, in the meantime, has sought some time to speak with the Bangladeshi government before declaring their decision on Thursday, the deadline.&nbsp;Speaking to the media, Aminul said he asked for some time (from the ICC) to talk with his country’s government, while claiming that the board continues to feel unsafe to send its players across the border for the 20-team tournament starting in 15 days. Aminul added that the BCB still wants Bangladesh to play their scheduled league matches in Sri Lanka, the tournament’s co-host alongside India, and will revert to the governing body within the timeframe.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-upholds-bangladesh-s-demands-reassures-no-changes-in-t20-world-cup-schedule-1769003244672">ICC upholds Bangladesh's demands, reassures no changes in T20 World Cup schedule</a> &nbsp;"I asked the ICC board for time to talk to my government for one last time," Aminul said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.&nbsp; &nbsp;"They said it's a valid point, and gave me 24 or 48 hours to get back to them. I don't want to put pressure on the government. We know that India is not secure for us. We remain in the stance that we want to play in Sri Lanka. I know the ICC denied us, but we will talk to the government one more time. I will inform the ICC about the government's feedback,” he added. &nbsp;Speaking of finding a middle ground in just one day, considering both boards are firm with their stances, the BCB president said, "I am hoping for a miracle from the ICC. Who doesn't want to play in the World Cup? &nbsp;"The Bangladesh players want to play the World Cup. The Bangladesh government wants Bangladesh to play the World Cup. But we don't think India is safe for our players. A government doesn't only consider the players, but they consider all, when it takes a decision." &nbsp;Per the report, Aminul was the only BCB representative invited to the ICC board meeting, where he kept his cricket board and country's stance, including a proposal to move Bangladesh’s scheduled league matches (to Sri Lanka) by switching places with either Ireland or Zimbabwe (in Group B). The ICC rejected this idea, citing Sri Lanka’s rejection of ‘not wanting a new team’ in their group.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, Bangladesh is placed in Group C alongside England, Italy, the West Indies and Nepal. Bangladesh will play its first three league matches at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata and the final one at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.&nbsp;

The ICC has given the BCB one extra day to finalise their stance on travelling to India for the T20 World Cup, starting in 15 days. 

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president, Aminul Islam, is hoping for a miracle from the apex body (the ICC) as he tries to salvage Bangladesh’s place in the forthcoming 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. The ICC officials held a meeting on Wednesday (Jan 21), informing the BCB that they will replace Bangladesh with another team should they decide against travelling to India. Aminul, in the meantime, has sought some time to speak with the Bangladeshi government before declaring their decision on Thursday, the deadline. Speaking to the media, Aminul said he asked for some time (from the ICC) to talk with his country’s government, while claiming that the board continues to feel unsafe to send its players across the border for the 20-team tournament starting in 15 days. Aminul added that the BCB still wants Bangladesh to play their scheduled league matches in Sri Lanka, the tournament’s co-host alongside India, and will revert to the governing body within the timeframe. Also read | ICC upholds Bangladesh's demands, reassures no changes in T20 World Cup schedule "I asked the ICC board for time to talk to my government for one last time," Aminul said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. "They said it's a valid point, and gave me 24 or 48 hours to get back to them. I don't want to put pressure on the government. We know that India is not secure for us. We remain in the stance that we want to play in Sri Lanka. I know the ICC denied us, but we will talk to the government one more time. I will inform the ICC about the government's feedback,” he added. Speaking of finding a middle ground in just one day, considering both boards are firm with their stances, the BCB president said, "I am hoping for a miracle from the ICC. Who doesn't want to play in the World Cup? "The Bangladesh players want to play the World Cup. The Bangladesh government wants Bangladesh to play the World Cup. But we don't think India is safe for our players. A government doesn't only consider the players, but they consider all, when it takes a decision." Per the report, Aminul was the only BCB representative invited to the ICC board meeting, where he kept his cricket board and country's stance, including a proposal to move Bangladesh’s scheduled league matches (to Sri Lanka) by switching places with either Ireland or Zimbabwe (in Group B). The ICC rejected this idea, citing Sri Lanka’s rejection of ‘not wanting a new team’ in their group. Meanwhile, Bangladesh is placed in Group C alongside England, Italy, the West Indies and Nepal. Bangladesh will play its first three league matches at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata and the final one at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

The ICC has given the BCB one extra day to finalise their stance on travelling to India for the T20 World Cup, starting in 15 days.&nbsp;

BCB hoping for last-minute ‘miracle’ from ICC as Bangladesh’s T20 WC fate stays in limbo

From Arshdeep Singh to Rashid Khan here is a look at five bowlers fastest to 100 T20I wickets. The list also features the likes of Wanindu Hasaranga, Haris Rauf and Shaheen Shah Afridi. 

From Arshdeep Singh to Rashid Khan here is a look at five bowlers fastest to 100 T20I wickets. The list also features the likes of Wanindu Hasaranga, Haris Rauf and Shaheen Shah Afridi.&nbsp;

Meet 5 bowlers fastest to 100 T20I wickets ft Rashid Khan (Test playing nations only)

Amid reports of PCB halting all preparations for next month’s T20 World Cup in a move to back BCB’s stance against sending its cricket team to India over security concerns, the Pakistan Cricket Board has officially written to the apex body (the ICC) endorsing support to Bangladesh over the ongoing venue row. Following recent instances of chaos and regular attacks on the minorities in Bangladesh and India's retaliation to it, the country's sports advisor stood by his government’s stance of not sending their cricket team to India, having already communicated the same to the ICC numerous times and taking a 'no' for an answer each time.&nbsp;On Tuesday (Jan 20), a day before the deadline ends for the BCB to take a final call on its team’s T20 World Cup future, the PCB sends out a clear message to the governing body and all other participating members by backing the BCB’s call not to travel to India, where they feel their players and support staff aren’t safe.&nbsp; &nbsp;An ESPNcricinfo report claims that the ICC has called a Board meeting on Wednesday (Jan 22) to address this matter and come up with a solution, with the 20-team tournament close to two weeks away. However, it remains unclear if PCB’s email led to ICC scheduling a board meeting. &nbsp;Although the timing of PCB’s email to the ICC could have raised eyebrows, the apex body is ‘highly-unlikely’ to accept BCB’s plea of Sri Lanka, the co-host alongside India, hosting all Bangladesh matches, like it’s doing in Pakistan’s case; that, although, that remains a different story. The ICC is clear about its stance and even conveyed the same message to the BCB during their recent meeting in Dhaka over the weekend. &nbsp;The BCB, with its government support, is also unfazed by ICC’s verdict, sticking to its stance of sending the Bangladesh Team to India for the first showpiece event of the year. The ICC, however, even issued an ultimatum to Bangladesh, which its sports advisor has denied having any awareness of, to either continue with the original schedule (of playing its league matches in India, across two cities) or be ready to be replaced by the next highest-ranked non-qualified team, Scotland in this case. &nbsp;Meanwhile, this move by the PCB has come on the back of week-long speculations around their involvement in this matter, which included unverified reports of Pakistan offering to host Bangladesh’s T20 WC matches without holding any staging rights, and also <a href="T20 World Cup: PCB vows to reconsider participation if BCB's concerns aren't met - Report">reviewing its participation in the World Cup</a>. &nbsp;Placed in Group C, Bangladesh has England, the West Indies, Nepal and the tournament debutants, Italy, as remaining members. Bangladesh is scheduled to play their first three league matches at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata and their final group game at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.&nbsp;

The ICC has called a board meeting on Wednesday (Jan 22) to address this matter and come up with a solution, with the 20-team tournament close to two weeks away.

Amid reports of PCB halting all preparations for next month’s T20 World Cup in a move to back BCB’s stance against sending its cricket team to India over security concerns, the Pakistan Cricket Board has officially written to the apex body (the ICC) endorsing support to Bangladesh over the ongoing venue row. Following recent instances of chaos and regular attacks on the minorities in Bangladesh and India's retaliation to it, the country's sports advisor stood by his government’s stance of not sending their cricket team to India, having already communicated the same to the ICC numerous times and taking a 'no' for an answer each time. On Tuesday (Jan 20), a day before the deadline ends for the BCB to take a final call on its team’s T20 World Cup future, the PCB sends out a clear message to the governing body and all other participating members by backing the BCB’s call not to travel to India, where they feel their players and support staff aren’t safe. An ESPNcricinfo report claims that the ICC has called a Board meeting on Wednesday (Jan 22) to address this matter and come up with a solution, with the 20-team tournament close to two weeks away. However, it remains unclear if PCB’s email led to ICC scheduling a board meeting. Although the timing of PCB’s email to the ICC could have raised eyebrows, the apex body is ‘highly-unlikely’ to accept BCB’s plea of Sri Lanka, the co-host alongside India, hosting all Bangladesh matches, like it’s doing in Pakistan’s case; that, although, that remains a different story. The ICC is clear about its stance and even conveyed the same message to the BCB during their recent meeting in Dhaka over the weekend. The BCB, with its government support, is also unfazed by ICC’s verdict, sticking to its stance of sending the Bangladesh Team to India for the first showpiece event of the year. The ICC, however, even issued an ultimatum to Bangladesh, which its sports advisor has denied having any awareness of, to either continue with the original schedule (of playing its league matches in India, across two cities) or be ready to be replaced by the next highest-ranked non-qualified team, Scotland in this case. Meanwhile, this move by the PCB has come on the back of week-long speculations around their involvement in this matter, which included unverified reports of Pakistan offering to host Bangladesh’s T20 WC matches without holding any staging rights, and also reviewing its participation in the World Cup. Placed in Group C, Bangladesh has England, the West Indies, Nepal and the tournament debutants, Italy, as remaining members. Bangladesh is scheduled to play their first three league matches at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata and their final group game at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

The ICC has called a board meeting on Wednesday (Jan 22) to address this matter and come up with a solution, with the 20-team tournament close to two weeks away.

T20 World Cup: PCB officially writes to ICC endorsing support to Bangladesh over venue row

Bangladesh’s sports advisor, Asif Nazrul, has reaffirmed his country’s stance against travelling to India over security concerns for the 2026 T20 World Cup, and that they are unwilling to change it with the tournament less than 20 days away. Asif also shrugged off talks around the ICC replacing Bangladesh with Scotland, the highest-ranked non-qualified team in the T20 rankings, should the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) decide against playing their scheduled league matches in India.&nbsp;Bangladesh is placed in Group C, alongside England, the West Indies, Nepal and tournament debutants Italy. Bangladesh is scheduled to play their first three league matches at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata before moving to the Wankhede in Mumbai for their final group game. Bangladesh will play the West Indies in their tournament opener on February 7. &nbsp;The BCB had asked the ICC to move their scheduled T20 WC matches out of India (to Sri Lanka - the tournament's co-host), citing concerns around the players' safety. Finding no reason to accept their plea, the apex body rejected it earlier, and despite the BCB chasing them again, they did not change their stance.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/2026-t20-world-cup-pakistan-pcb-vows-to-reconsider-participation-if-bcb-concerns-are-not-met-icc-january-21-deadline-1768883433844">T20 World Cup: PCB vows to reconsider participation if BCB's concerns aren't met - Report</a> &nbsp;The ICC, moreover, gave BCB an ultimatum to make a final call by January 21, or they would consider swapping them with Scotland. However, for that to happen, the ICC is bound to grant a 15-day window to the Scottish side. &nbsp;Asif, on the other hand, claims to have no information about it. &nbsp;"I am not aware that Scotland will be included in our place (in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup)," Asif said in a chat with the reporters on Tuesday, as quoted by Cricbuzz. "If the ICC bows to pressure from the Indian Cricket Board and tries to impose pressure on us by setting unreasonable conditions, we will not accept those conditions," he said. &nbsp;Citing Pakistan’s example, which, anyway, is playing all their scheduled matches in Sri Lanka, Asif said, "In the past, there are examples that Pakistan said that they will not travel to India, and ICC changed the venue. We have asked to change the venue on logical grounds, and we cannot be pressurised to play in India by putting illogical pressure," he continued.

Placed in Group C, Bangladesh is scheduled to play their first three league matches at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata before moving to the Wankhede in Mumbai for their final group game.

Bangladesh’s sports advisor, Asif Nazrul, has reaffirmed his country’s stance against travelling to India over security concerns for the 2026 T20 World Cup, and that they are unwilling to change it with the tournament less than 20 days away. Asif also shrugged off talks around the ICC replacing Bangladesh with Scotland, the highest-ranked non-qualified team in the T20 rankings, should the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) decide against playing their scheduled league matches in India. Bangladesh is placed in Group C, alongside England, the West Indies, Nepal and tournament debutants Italy. Bangladesh is scheduled to play their first three league matches at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata before moving to the Wankhede in Mumbai for their final group game. Bangladesh will play the West Indies in their tournament opener on February 7. The BCB had asked the ICC to move their scheduled T20 WC matches out of India (to Sri Lanka - the tournament's co-host), citing concerns around the players' safety. Finding no reason to accept their plea, the apex body rejected it earlier, and despite the BCB chasing them again, they did not change their stance. Also read | T20 World Cup: PCB vows to reconsider participation if BCB's concerns aren't met - Report The ICC, moreover, gave BCB an ultimatum to make a final call by January 21, or they would consider swapping them with Scotland. However, for that to happen, the ICC is bound to grant a 15-day window to the Scottish side. Asif, on the other hand, claims to have no information about it. "I am not aware that Scotland will be included in our place (in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup)," Asif said in a chat with the reporters on Tuesday, as quoted by Cricbuzz. "If the ICC bows to pressure from the Indian Cricket Board and tries to impose pressure on us by setting unreasonable conditions, we will not accept those conditions," he said. Citing Pakistan’s example, which, anyway, is playing all their scheduled matches in Sri Lanka, Asif said, "In the past, there are examples that Pakistan said that they will not travel to India, and ICC changed the venue. We have asked to change the venue on logical grounds, and we cannot be pressurised to play in India by putting illogical pressure," he continued.

Placed in Group C, Bangladesh is scheduled to play their first three league matches at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata before moving to the Wankhede in Mumbai for their final group game.

T20 WC: Unaware of ‘ICC deadline’, Bangladesh's sports advisor reaffirms stance against travelling to India

In a bizarre set of events, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly halted its team preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka amid rising uncertainty over Bangladesh’s participation in the 20-team tournament. This move, however, indicates PCB’s support for the BCB, which sits between choosing to play in India and suffering consequences.&nbsp;Moreover, what’s strange is that Pakistan could mull its participation in this showpiece event, should BCB’s request of playing their T20 WC matches only in Sri Lanka (due to security concerns) isn’t met by the apex body (the ICC), which had denied their requests altogether. &nbsp;After the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) directed the IPL franchise, Kolkata Knight Riders, to release the only Bangladeshi player picked at last December’s IPL auction (seamer Mustafizur Rahman) over chaos and regular attacks on the minorities in Bangladesh, the BCB retaliated – by first suspending all IPL-related broadcast in the country, and later, wrote to the ICC about wanting to shift their scheduled T20 WC matches outside of India, citing concerns around its players’ safety. &nbsp;The governing body initially denied their earlier request, but they revisited the matter after the BCB officials took a stern stance. Although plenty happened in between, including the sacking of BCB’s director, the board pursued the ICC officials again, only to receive a "no" for an answer and a deadline (January 21) to decide between choosing their team’s fate.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-could-name-bangladesh-replacement-at-t20-wc-should-bcb-remain-stern-over-venue-row-1768804476776">Bangladesh on brink of losing T20 WC spot should BCB refuse India travel; ICC issues deadline</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, a Geo News report claims officials from Dhaka and Islamabad spoke over the weekend, with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who is also Pakistan’s interior minister and Senator, involved in the discussions. It further reads that Pakistan has lent complete support to Bangladesh over their concerns surrounding the security of its players in India, adding that they will also review their participation should Bangladesh’s concerns are not addressed.<h3>What are the consequences?</h3>The ICC has set a January 21 deadline for the BCB (to decide between playing in India or having its team forfeited from the tournament). While the BCB wants Bangladesh to participate in the T20 World Cup, they did not want to play in India, asking the ICC to shift their matches to Sri Lanka. Upon reviewing the security situation in India, the ICC denied Bangladesh’s second plea. &nbsp;Should the BCB decide against playing in India, the ICC will replace Bangladesh with Scotland in Group C. &nbsp;The 2026 T20 World Cup begin on February 7.&nbsp;

Should the BCB decide against playing in India, the ICC will replace Bangladesh with Scotland in Group C.

In a bizarre set of events, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly halted its team preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka amid rising uncertainty over Bangladesh’s participation in the 20-team tournament. This move, however, indicates PCB’s support for the BCB, which sits between choosing to play in India and suffering consequences. Moreover, what’s strange is that Pakistan could mull its participation in this showpiece event, should BCB’s request of playing their T20 WC matches only in Sri Lanka (due to security concerns) isn’t met by the apex body (the ICC), which had denied their requests altogether. After the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) directed the IPL franchise, Kolkata Knight Riders, to release the only Bangladeshi player picked at last December’s IPL auction (seamer Mustafizur Rahman) over chaos and regular attacks on the minorities in Bangladesh, the BCB retaliated – by first suspending all IPL-related broadcast in the country, and later, wrote to the ICC about wanting to shift their scheduled T20 WC matches outside of India, citing concerns around its players’ safety. The governing body initially denied their earlier request, but they revisited the matter after the BCB officials took a stern stance. Although plenty happened in between, including the sacking of BCB’s director, the board pursued the ICC officials again, only to receive a "no" for an answer and a deadline (January 21) to decide between choosing their team’s fate. Also read | Bangladesh on brink of losing T20 WC spot should BCB refuse India travel; ICC issues deadline Meanwhile, a Geo News report claims officials from Dhaka and Islamabad spoke over the weekend, with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who is also Pakistan’s interior minister and Senator, involved in the discussions. It further reads that Pakistan has lent complete support to Bangladesh over their concerns surrounding the security of its players in India, adding that they will also review their participation should Bangladesh’s concerns are not addressed. What are the consequences? The ICC has set a January 21 deadline for the BCB (to decide between playing in India or having its team forfeited from the tournament). While the BCB wants Bangladesh to participate in the T20 World Cup, they did not want to play in India, asking the ICC to shift their matches to Sri Lanka. Upon reviewing the security situation in India, the ICC denied Bangladesh’s second plea. Should the BCB decide against playing in India, the ICC will replace Bangladesh with Scotland in Group C. The 2026 T20 World Cup begin on February 7.

Should the BCB decide against playing in India, the ICC will replace Bangladesh with Scotland in Group C.

T20 World Cup: PCB vows to reconsider participation if BCB's concerns aren't met - Report

Following delays in the issuance of Indian visas for two Pakistani-origin English bowlers, Rehan Ahmed and Adil Rashid, for the 2026 T20 World Cup, the International Cricket Council (ICC) is confident that a similar issue will not occur for the pending visas (around 42 Pakistani-origin and related players and support staff).&nbsp;The assurance from cricket’s apex body has come amid tightened visa rules for Pakistani-origin players (across sports) travelling to India. While the Indian government has granted visas to the two English spinners, the ICC highlights that their cases are part of a wider pool of applications pending (waiting to be cleared), reiterating that the overall process is firmly on track.&nbsp; &nbsp;Even though Pakistan will not play any of their scheduled T20 World Cup matches in India, an ESPNcricinfo report claims that nearly 42 applications are pending (of Pakistani origins) from several countries, including the Netherlands, Italy, the UAE, Bangladesh and the USA. Those included are not just players, but the support staff and even officials.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-could-name-bangladesh-replacement-at-t20-wc-should-bcb-remain-stern-over-venue-row-1768804476776">Bangladesh on brink of losing T20 WC spot should BCB refuse India travel; ICC issues deadline</a> &nbsp;The Indian visa delays for the Pakistani descent players have become regular lately, owing to tense political relations between the two arch-rivals. However, this matter again gained prominence after the USA fast bowler Ali Khan claimed that his Indian visa had been denied for the marquee tournament. &nbsp;The report also claims that the ICC has adopted a more hands-on approach this time; they are in constant touch with Indian High Commissions and consulates across several countries, ensuring the pending applications are being handled smoothly and without unnecessary hold-ups. &nbsp;While Indian visas have been granted to players and officials from Canada and the Netherlands, the remaining teams (the USA, the UAE, Bangladesh and Italy) have their respective visa appointments scheduled for early next week. Cricket’s governing body is confident that everyone involved will receive their Indian visas in time (by January 31) for the first showpiece event of the year. &nbsp;The 20-team tournament will get underway on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

The ICC is confident that everyone involved in this T20 World Cup will receive their respective Indian visas by January 31.

Following delays in the issuance of Indian visas for two Pakistani-origin English bowlers, Rehan Ahmed and Adil Rashid, for the 2026 T20 World Cup, the International Cricket Council (ICC) is confident that a similar issue will not occur for the pending visas (around 42 Pakistani-origin and related players and support staff). The assurance from cricket’s apex body has come amid tightened visa rules for Pakistani-origin players (across sports) travelling to India. While the Indian government has granted visas to the two English spinners, the ICC highlights that their cases are part of a wider pool of applications pending (waiting to be cleared), reiterating that the overall process is firmly on track. Even though Pakistan will not play any of their scheduled T20 World Cup matches in India, an ESPNcricinfo report claims that nearly 42 applications are pending (of Pakistani origins) from several countries, including the Netherlands, Italy, the UAE, Bangladesh and the USA. Those included are not just players, but the support staff and even officials. Also read | Bangladesh on brink of losing T20 WC spot should BCB refuse India travel; ICC issues deadline The Indian visa delays for the Pakistani descent players have become regular lately, owing to tense political relations between the two arch-rivals. However, this matter again gained prominence after the USA fast bowler Ali Khan claimed that his Indian visa had been denied for the marquee tournament. The report also claims that the ICC has adopted a more hands-on approach this time; they are in constant touch with Indian High Commissions and consulates across several countries, ensuring the pending applications are being handled smoothly and without unnecessary hold-ups. While Indian visas have been granted to players and officials from Canada and the Netherlands, the remaining teams (the USA, the UAE, Bangladesh and Italy) have their respective visa appointments scheduled for early next week. Cricket’s governing body is confident that everyone involved will receive their Indian visas in time (by January 31) for the first showpiece event of the year. The 20-team tournament will get underway on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka.

The ICC is confident that everyone involved in this T20 World Cup will receive their respective Indian visas by January 31.

T20 World Cup: ICC confident of Indian visa approvals for 42 Pakistan-origin players and staff

Bangladesh is on the brink of losing its 2026 T20 World Cup spot to a lower-ranked team should its cricket board (the BCB) remain firm on its stance (of sending the team to India for the marquee tournament starting in less than three weeks). Per the latest report, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has issued a deadline to the BCB to choose between playing their scheduled league games in India or be ready to be replaced; during their second meeting with the BCB (on Saturday), the ICC again refused their request of moving the team’s matches out of India, citing security concerns.&nbsp;A final call on Bangladesh’s participation at next month’s T20 World Cup, primarily whether they travel to India for their scheduled four group games, will be taken by January 21, an ESPNcricinfo report read. It further claims that the ICC informed the BCB of its decision during their second meeting over the weekend. &nbsp;In Saturday’s talks, the BCB clarified that they want to participate in the T20 World Cup, not just in India; they requested the ICC to move its matches to Sri Lanka, the co-host of the tournament. Although the BCB again raised concerns over their players’ safety in India, since first bringing this up with them on January 4, the ICC denied all such requests, maintaining its stance of not changing the original schedule, which sees Bangladesh placed in Group C.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-plenty-to-learn-shubman-gill-reflects-on-india-s-performance-after-odi-series-loss-to-new-zealand-1768757819473">'Plenty to learn': Shubman Gill reflects on India’s performance after ODI series loss to New Zealand</a> &nbsp;Not only this, but the ICC has also denied BCB’s request to move Bangladesh to Group B, swapping places with Ireland, which only plays its group games in Sri Lanka. Bangladesh, on the other hand, is scheduled to play their first three league matches in Kolkata, including the tournament opener, before moving to Mumbai for its last group tie. &nbsp;Meanwhile, an advisory issued to all 20 participating teams, prepared by an independent security agency, indicates that the overall threat level in India is between medium and high band; however, there remains no direct or specified threat to any travelling teams. &nbsp;The report also claims that the ICC has now thrown the ball in BCB’s court, awaiting their response following their last meeting. Should the BCB refuse to travel to India for the first showpiece event of the year, the ICC would then replace Bangladesh with Scotland, based on current rankings.

Bangladesh is placed in Group C, alongside the West Indies, England, Nepal and the tournament debutants Italy.

Bangladesh is on the brink of losing its 2026 T20 World Cup spot to a lower-ranked team should its cricket board (the BCB) remain firm on its stance (of sending the team to India for the marquee tournament starting in less than three weeks). Per the latest report, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has issued a deadline to the BCB to choose between playing their scheduled league games in India or be ready to be replaced; during their second meeting with the BCB (on Saturday), the ICC again refused their request of moving the team’s matches out of India, citing security concerns. A final call on Bangladesh’s participation at next month’s T20 World Cup, primarily whether they travel to India for their scheduled four group games, will be taken by January 21, an ESPNcricinfo report read. It further claims that the ICC informed the BCB of its decision during their second meeting over the weekend. In Saturday’s talks, the BCB clarified that they want to participate in the T20 World Cup, not just in India; they requested the ICC to move its matches to Sri Lanka, the co-host of the tournament. Although the BCB again raised concerns over their players’ safety in India, since first bringing this up with them on January 4, the ICC denied all such requests, maintaining its stance of not changing the original schedule, which sees Bangladesh placed in Group C. Also read | 'Plenty to learn': Shubman Gill reflects on India’s performance after ODI series loss to New Zealand Not only this, but the ICC has also denied BCB’s request to move Bangladesh to Group B, swapping places with Ireland, which only plays its group games in Sri Lanka. Bangladesh, on the other hand, is scheduled to play their first three league matches in Kolkata, including the tournament opener, before moving to Mumbai for its last group tie. Meanwhile, an advisory issued to all 20 participating teams, prepared by an independent security agency, indicates that the overall threat level in India is between medium and high band; however, there remains no direct or specified threat to any travelling teams. The report also claims that the ICC has now thrown the ball in BCB’s court, awaiting their response following their last meeting. Should the BCB refuse to travel to India for the first showpiece event of the year, the ICC would then replace Bangladesh with Scotland, based on current rankings.

Bangladesh is placed in Group C, alongside the West Indies, England, Nepal and the tournament debutants Italy.

Bangladesh on brink of losing T20 WC spot should BCB refuse India travel; ICC issues deadline

From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum here is a look at five batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds. The honourable list also features the likes of South Africa’s Rilee Rossouw and Pakistan’s Ahmed Shehzad. 

From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum here is a look at five batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds. The honourable list also features the likes of South Africa’s Rilee Rossouw and Pakistan’s Ahmed Shehzad.&nbsp;

From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds

Two England spinners of Pakistani heritage, Rehan Ahmed and Adil Rashid, are facing visa delays ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. The 20-team tournament gets underway on February 7, with England playing its opener against Nepal on February 8. The latest report suggests that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is in constant touch with the Indian government, the BCCI and the ICC to resolve this issue at the earliest. The two players will not travel to Sri Lanka for England’s shadow white-ball tour (including three ODIs and as many T20Is) starting next week.&nbsp;&nbsp;Per a Sky Sports report, the two players, as things stand, will travel to India for the team’s tournament opener.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-is-bbl-new-rule-designated-batter-and-fielder-ricky-ponting-among-first-to-back-it-1768485424920">What is BBL’s new rule, ‘designated batter and fielder’ - Ricky Ponting among first to back it</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, visa delays of Pakistani-origin players travelling to India to play cricket are not unusual. England’s premier red-ball spinner, Shoaib Bashir, also belonging to Pakistani heritage, faced similar issues during England’s last Test tour of India, missing the first game in Hyderabad. On the other hand, English white-ball seamer Saqib Mahmood also faced travel delays due to the same reason earlier. &nbsp;The report also claims that there are no objections from the Indian government to issuing visas to both players, with the ECB confident of having them on board for the 20-team tournament.&nbsp; &nbsp;England, which lost the away Ashes Down Under (1-4), will take on Sri Lanka in a warm-up tour starting January 22. &nbsp;England squad for Sri Lanka ODIs -&nbsp;&nbsp;Harry Brook, Rehan Ahmed, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Joe Root and Luke Wood &nbsp;England squad Sri Lanka T20Is -&nbsp;&nbsp;Harry Brook, Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer (World Cup only), Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Brydon Carse (Sri Lanka tour only), Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Josh Tongue and Luke Wood<h3>Here is England’s white-ball schedule for the Sri Lanka series –</h3><ul><li>January 22 – 1st ODI, Colombo</li><li>January 24 – 2nd ODI, Colombo</li><li>January 27 – 3rd ODI, Colombo</li><li>January 30 – 1st T20I, Pallekele</li><li>February 1 – 2nd T20I, Pallekele</li><li>February 3 – 3rd T20I, Pallekele</li></ul>

The visa delays of Pakistani-origin players travelling to India to play cricket are not unusual. England's Shoaib Bashir and Saqib Mahmood have faced similar issues earlier. 

Two England spinners of Pakistani heritage, Rehan Ahmed and Adil Rashid, are facing visa delays ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. The 20-team tournament gets underway on February 7, with England playing its opener against Nepal on February 8. The latest report suggests that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is in constant touch with the Indian government, the BCCI and the ICC to resolve this issue at the earliest. The two players will not travel to Sri Lanka for England’s shadow white-ball tour (including three ODIs and as many T20Is) starting next week. Per a Sky Sports report, the two players, as things stand, will travel to India for the team’s tournament opener. Also read | What is BBL’s new rule, ‘designated batter and fielder’ - Ricky Ponting among first to back it Meanwhile, visa delays of Pakistani-origin players travelling to India to play cricket are not unusual. England’s premier red-ball spinner, Shoaib Bashir, also belonging to Pakistani heritage, faced similar issues during England’s last Test tour of India, missing the first game in Hyderabad. On the other hand, English white-ball seamer Saqib Mahmood also faced travel delays due to the same reason earlier. The report also claims that there are no objections from the Indian government to issuing visas to both players, with the ECB confident of having them on board for the 20-team tournament. England, which lost the away Ashes Down Under (1-4), will take on Sri Lanka in a warm-up tour starting January 22. England squad for Sri Lanka ODIs - Harry Brook, Rehan Ahmed, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Joe Root and Luke Wood England squad Sri Lanka T20Is - Harry Brook, Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer (World Cup only), Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Brydon Carse (Sri Lanka tour only), Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Josh Tongue and Luke Wood Here is England’s white-ball schedule for the Sri Lanka series – January 22 – 1st ODI, Colombo January 24 – 2nd ODI, Colombo January 27 – 3rd ODI, Colombo January 30 – 1st T20I, Pallekele February 1 – 2nd T20I, Pallekele February 3 – 3rd T20I, Pallekele

The visa delays of Pakistani-origin players travelling to India to play cricket are not unusual. England's Shoaib Bashir and Saqib Mahmood have faced similar issues earlier.&nbsp;

England spinners of Pakistan-origin face visa delays ahead of 2026 T20 World Cup

Pakistan has reportedly offered to host Bangladesh’s matches at next month’s T20 World Cup amid rising diplomatic tensions. Media reports across Pakistan on Sunday (Jan 11) stated that the nation is viewing an opportunity to host T20 World Cup matches if Bangladesh refuses to travel to India. The situation is in the limelight after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) banned Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman from playing in IPL 2026.<h2>Pakistan to host T20 World Cup matches?</h2>According to a Geo Super report on Sunday, PCB sources said Pakistan has formally communicated its willingness to step in and host Bangladesh’s matches if Sri Lankan venues are not available. If this is the case, ICC will soon look into the matter, with Pakistan having a grand opportunity to enter the mix. Sri Lanka is unlikely to host more matches due to a lack of preparation time and logistical issues.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;This could mean that, in case Bangladesh is given permission not play in India, another neutral venue could be on the cards. Interestingly, Pakistan is already playing under the hybrid model, where they will not travel to India for the T20 World Cup. Pakistan’s matches will be hosted by Sri Lanka, including knockout matches in case they reach that stage.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a><h2>What is the situation?</h2>In the first week of January, amid violence against the Hindu community in Bangladesh, BCCI asked IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) not to include Mustafizur Rahman in their squad for the upcoming season. Soon, the decision became official with Rahman dropped from the KKR squad. As a consequence, the Bangladesh government decided not to broadcast IPL in Bangladesh, giving a diplomatic turn to the row.Soon Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) requested ICC to shift their matches outside India.

According to a media report on Sunday, PCB sources said Pakistan has formally communicated its willingness to step in and host Bangladesh’s matches if Sri Lankan venues are not available. 

Pakistan has reportedly offered to host Bangladesh’s matches at next month’s T20 World Cup amid rising diplomatic tensions. Media reports across Pakistan on Sunday (Jan 11) stated that the nation is viewing an opportunity to host T20 World Cup matches if Bangladesh refuses to travel to India. The situation is in the limelight after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) banned Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman from playing in IPL 2026. Pakistan to host T20 World Cup matches? According to a Geo Super report on Sunday, PCB sources said Pakistan has formally communicated its willingness to step in and host Bangladesh’s matches if Sri Lankan venues are not available. If this is the case, ICC will soon look into the matter, with Pakistan having a grand opportunity to enter the mix. Sri Lanka is unlikely to host more matches due to a lack of preparation time and logistical issues. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes This could mean that, in case Bangladesh is given permission not play in India, another neutral venue could be on the cards. Interestingly, Pakistan is already playing under the hybrid model, where they will not travel to India for the T20 World Cup. Pakistan’s matches will be hosted by Sri Lanka, including knockout matches in case they reach that stage. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes What is the situation? In the first week of January, amid violence against the Hindu community in Bangladesh, BCCI asked IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) not to include Mustafizur Rahman in their squad for the upcoming season. Soon, the decision became official with Rahman dropped from the KKR squad. As a consequence, the Bangladesh government decided not to broadcast IPL in Bangladesh, giving a diplomatic turn to the row. Soon Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) requested ICC to shift their matches outside India.

According to a media report on Sunday, PCB sources said Pakistan has formally communicated its willingness to step in and host Bangladesh’s matches if Sri Lankan venues are not available.&nbsp;

T20 World Cup 2026: Pakistan offers to host Bangladesh's matches amid diplomatic row - Report

Bangladesh is not ready to settle with ICC’s latest verdict on their request for a venue change at the upcoming 2026 T20 World Cup. The country’s sports advisor, Asif Nazrul, has doubled down on BCB’s request to move Bangladesh’s league stage matches out of India (to Sri Lanka), citing security concerns. Asif said the BCB would chase the apex body, trying to convince them of the gravity of the issue, related to its players’ safety and ‘country’s dignity’ – something they are unwilling to compromise an inch on.&nbsp;After the ICC rejected BCB’s plea of staging their matches in Sri Lanka, the co-host of the 20-team tournament, Asif said, "Today (on Wednesday), after reading the letter from the ICC, we understand that the ICC doesn't fully realise the scale of the security issue regarding Bangladeshi cricketers in India.&nbsp; &nbsp;"I believe it's not only a matter of security but also that of national humiliation. We are looking at it as a security issue, where the BCCI itself is telling the Kolkata [Knight Riders] team that this player can't be given security, [so] leave him out from your team. This in itself is a tacit recognition that it isn't very safe to play in India,” he added.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bangladesh-not-first-6-teams-which-refused-to-play-at-allotted-venue-in-an-icc-event-india-australia-wi-nz-england-zimbabwe-1767795019341">Bangladesh not first - 6 teams which refused to play at allotted venue in an ICC event</a> &nbsp;In the now-released ICC schedule, Bangladesh will play their first three league matches in Kolkata before moving south to Mumbai for their last group game. Although there were no concerns around it at the start, it all became an issue after the BCCI instructed the IPL franchise, Kolkata Knight Riders, to release Bangladeshi seamer Mustafizur Rahman (bought at the December auction for INR 9.2 crore) over recent chaos in Bangladesh and regular attacks on the minorities. &nbsp;While ‘latest developments’ across the border did hurt the relations between the two countries, not receiving a proper and reasonable explanation (from the BCCI) over Mustafizur’s release irked BCB and cricket fans, which further escalated the situation.&nbsp; &nbsp;The BCB first banned all IPL-related broadcasts in the country before formally writing to the ICC, raising their concerns. Now, while reverting to ICC’s decision, the BCB said they will continue ‘constructive engagement’ to find a solution, also reiterating its intentions not to play in India.&nbsp;&nbsp;"We don't want to say anything about the bigger picture, the communal situation in India," Nazrul said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.&nbsp; &nbsp;"But when it comes to our cricketers' safety, Bangladesh's safety, and Bangladesh's dignity, we won't make any compromise. We want to play cricket, we want to play the World Cup - but we want to play in Sri Lanka, which is the other host country. We are honouring our position on this because we hope we are able to convince the ICC, and that the ICC considers our logic with an open heart, and neutrally, to let us deservingly play in the World Cup. &nbsp;"Whatever happens next, we'll take a stand accordingly. For now, we have taken this stand very clearly that we'll convince the ICC that the atmosphere isn't [right] for us to play in India,” he added.

Bangladesh's sports advisor said the BCB would chase ICC, trying to convince them of the gravity of this issue, related to its players’ safety and ‘country’s dignity’ – something they are unwilling to compromise an inch on.

Bangladesh is not ready to settle with ICC’s latest verdict on their request for a venue change at the upcoming 2026 T20 World Cup. The country’s sports advisor, Asif Nazrul, has doubled down on BCB’s request to move Bangladesh’s league stage matches out of India (to Sri Lanka), citing security concerns. Asif said the BCB would chase the apex body, trying to convince them of the gravity of the issue, related to its players’ safety and ‘country’s dignity’ – something they are unwilling to compromise an inch on. After the ICC rejected BCB’s plea of staging their matches in Sri Lanka, the co-host of the 20-team tournament, Asif said, "Today (on Wednesday), after reading the letter from the ICC, we understand that the ICC doesn't fully realise the scale of the security issue regarding Bangladeshi cricketers in India. "I believe it's not only a matter of security but also that of national humiliation. We are looking at it as a security issue, where the BCCI itself is telling the Kolkata [Knight Riders] team that this player can't be given security, [so] leave him out from your team. This in itself is a tacit recognition that it isn't very safe to play in India,” he added. Also read | Bangladesh not first - 6 teams which refused to play at allotted venue in an ICC event In the now-released ICC schedule, Bangladesh will play their first three league matches in Kolkata before moving south to Mumbai for their last group game. Although there were no concerns around it at the start, it all became an issue after the BCCI instructed the IPL franchise, Kolkata Knight Riders, to release Bangladeshi seamer Mustafizur Rahman (bought at the December auction for INR 9.2 crore) over recent chaos in Bangladesh and regular attacks on the minorities. While ‘latest developments’ across the border did hurt the relations between the two countries, not receiving a proper and reasonable explanation (from the BCCI) over Mustafizur’s release irked BCB and cricket fans, which further escalated the situation. The BCB first banned all IPL-related broadcasts in the country before formally writing to the ICC, raising their concerns. Now, while reverting to ICC’s decision, the BCB said they will continue ‘constructive engagement’ to find a solution, also reiterating its intentions not to play in India. "We don't want to say anything about the bigger picture, the communal situation in India," Nazrul said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. "But when it comes to our cricketers' safety, Bangladesh's safety, and Bangladesh's dignity, we won't make any compromise. We want to play cricket, we want to play the World Cup - but we want to play in Sri Lanka, which is the other host country. We are honouring our position on this because we hope we are able to convince the ICC, and that the ICC considers our logic with an open heart, and neutrally, to let us deservingly play in the World Cup. "Whatever happens next, we'll take a stand accordingly. For now, we have taken this stand very clearly that we'll convince the ICC that the atmosphere isn't [right] for us to play in India,” he added.

Bangladesh's sports advisor said the BCB would chase ICC, trying to convince them of the gravity of this issue, related to its players’ safety and ‘country’s dignity’ – something they are unwilling to compromise an inch on.

‘No compromise with Bangladesh’s dignity,’ BCB on not travelling to India for T20 World Cup

The ICC and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) are in talks over latter's refusal to play the group stage matches of upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 in India. Bangladesh has cited players' safety and well-being as the main concern behind their request. This is, however, not the first time when a team has refused to play at a given venue in an ICC event. In the past, teams like India (2025 Champions Trophy), Australia &amp; West Indies (1996 ODI World Cup), England &amp; New Zealand (2003 ODI World Cup), and Zimbabwe (2009 T20 World Cup) had done same as well.<h2>Bangladesh in talks with ICC after refusing to play in India in T20 World Cup 2026</h2>The situation with Bangladesh arose after removal of bowler Mustafizur Rahman from Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad after being bought at IPL 2026 auction for INR 9.2 crore. In retaliation, Bangladesh not only stopped the broadcast of IPL in the country for indefinite period but also rasied a request to ICC to changes their venues for the group stage matches in T20 World Cup 2026. Bangladesh are scheduled to play their first three group matches in Kolkata on February 7 (vs West Indies), February 9 (vs Italy) and February 14 (vs England) before the final match in Mumbai on February 17 (vs Nepal).<h2>Australia and West Indies refuse to play in Sri Lanka in 1996 ODI World Cup</h2>Australia and West Indies refused to travel to Sri Lanka for the 1996 ODI World Cup matches. The tournament was co-hosted by Sri Lanka, Pakistan and India together. The teams refused because of the civil war and a bomb explosion in Sri Lanka which preceeded the tournament. The two teams had to forfeit matches and give points to Sri Lanka which eventually won the tournament - their maiden and the only one till date.<h2>England and New Zealand refuse to travel to Zimbabwe and Kenya in 2003 ODI World Cup</h2>In 2003 ODI World Cup, England refused to travel to Zimbabwe and New Zealand decided against going to Kenya. The tournament was hosted in Africa - by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Kenya. England's reason was the then Tony Blair-led govenement's stance against erstwhile Zimbabwe administration led by Robert Mugabe. The Kiwis, on the other hand, refused to go to Nairobi because of a bombing a few months earlier. Both, England and New Zealand, gave walkover to their respective opponenents.<h2>Zimbabwe withdraw from 2009 T20 World Cup in England</h2>The diplomatic relations between Zimbabwe and England had not improved and the former eventually withdrew from the 2009 T20 World Cup hosted by England. Scotland were roped as a replacement but Zimbabwe still received their full participation fees.<h2>India refuse to travel to Pakistan for Champions Trophy 2025</h2>India, in March 2025, refused to go to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025 because of the strained political situation between the two countries. India's matches were eventually hosted in Dubai, UAE and they also went on to win the tournament.

In the past, teams like India (2025 Champions Trophy), Australia & West Indies (1996 ODI World Cup), England & New Zealand (2003 ODI World Cup), and Zimbabwe (2009 T20 World Cup) have refused to play their matches at an allotted venue in an ICC event.

The ICC and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) are in talks over latter's refusal to play the group stage matches of upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 in India. Bangladesh has cited players' safety and well-being as the main concern behind their request. This is, however, not the first time when a team has refused to play at a given venue in an ICC event. In the past, teams like India (2025 Champions Trophy), Australia & West Indies (1996 ODI World Cup), England & New Zealand (2003 ODI World Cup), and Zimbabwe (2009 T20 World Cup) had done same as well. Bangladesh in talks with ICC after refusing to play in India in T20 World Cup 2026 The situation with Bangladesh arose after removal of bowler Mustafizur Rahman from Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad after being bought at IPL 2026 auction for INR 9.2 crore. In retaliation, Bangladesh not only stopped the broadcast of IPL in the country for indefinite period but also rasied a request to ICC to changes their venues for the group stage matches in T20 World Cup 2026. Bangladesh are scheduled to play their first three group matches in Kolkata on February 7 (vs West Indies), February 9 (vs Italy) and February 14 (vs England) before the final match in Mumbai on February 17 (vs Nepal). Australia and West Indies refuse to play in Sri Lanka in 1996 ODI World Cup Australia and West Indies refused to travel to Sri Lanka for the 1996 ODI World Cup matches. The tournament was co-hosted by Sri Lanka, Pakistan and India together. The teams refused because of the civil war and a bomb explosion in Sri Lanka which preceeded the tournament. The two teams had to forfeit matches and give points to Sri Lanka which eventually won the tournament - their maiden and the only one till date. England and New Zealand refuse to travel to Zimbabwe and Kenya in 2003 ODI World Cup In 2003 ODI World Cup, England refused to travel to Zimbabwe and New Zealand decided against going to Kenya. The tournament was hosted in Africa - by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Kenya. England's reason was the then Tony Blair-led govenement's stance against erstwhile Zimbabwe administration led by Robert Mugabe. The Kiwis, on the other hand, refused to go to Nairobi because of a bombing a few months earlier. Both, England and New Zealand, gave walkover to their respective opponenents. Zimbabwe withdraw from 2009 T20 World Cup in England The diplomatic relations between Zimbabwe and England had not improved and the former eventually withdrew from the 2009 T20 World Cup hosted by England. Scotland were roped as a replacement but Zimbabwe still received their full participation fees. India refuse to travel to Pakistan for Champions Trophy 2025 India, in March 2025, refused to go to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025 because of the strained political situation between the two countries. India's matches were eventually hosted in Dubai, UAE and they also went on to win the tournament.

In the past, teams like India (2025 Champions Trophy), Australia &amp; West Indies (1996 ODI World Cup), England &amp; New Zealand (2003 ODI World Cup), and Zimbabwe (2009 T20 World Cup) have refused to play their matches at an allotted venue in an ICC event.

Bangladesh not first - 6 teams which refused to play at allotted venue in an ICC event

In a massive blow to BCB's quest to not send its cricket team to India for the forthcoming 2026 T20 World Cup over its players' safety, the apex body – the ICC found no tangible or security inputs suggesting any threat to Bangladeshi players, thus, for now, rejecting their plea for a venue change. The latest reports claim that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-bangladesh-play-t20-world-cup-2026-matches-in-india-icc-to-hold-talks-to-resolve-bcb-bcci-standoff-1767711493534">the two discussed this matter during an online meeting</a> after BCB formally wrote to them regarding their concern earlier, with the ICC sticking to its stance, also telling Bangladesh to either play their scheduled matches in India or forfeit points.&nbsp;All of it began after the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) directed IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release the only Bangladeshi player picked at the December auction, seamer Mustafizur Rahman (for INR 9.2 crore), over recent riots and attacks on the minorities in Bangladesh, fuelling tensions across the border. One such call led to growing anger among the BCB and their cricket fans. &nbsp;Irked more so for not receiving any reasonable explanation (from the BCCI) behind it, the BCB officials held back-to-back meetings over the past weekend, later deciding against travelling to India for the 20-team tournament starting early February. For that, they officially wrote to the ICC asking for their team matches to be moved out of India to “safeguard the safety and well-being of Bangladeshi players, team officials, Board members and other stakeholders.” &nbsp;The ICC’s position did not align with the BCB’s request, and although they did not formally issue a decision on Tuesday (Jan 6), it is expected to come by January 10.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, Bangladesh, placed in Group C, is scheduled to play their three league matches at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata (vs WI on Feb 7, vs ITL on Feb 9 and vs ENG on Feb 14) before moving to the Wankhede in Mumbai for their final group game against Nepal on February 17.<h3>No IPL coverage in Bangladesh; Mustafizur to play PSL</h3>In response to BCCI’s order to release Mustafizur, Bangladesh’s interim government ordered the Information and Broadcasting Ministry (I&amp;B) to ban all IPL-related broadcasts in the country, with no coverage around any event involving the cash-rich league. &nbsp;Besides, a Cricbuzz report also claims that the left-arm seamer has joined IPL’s counterpart, the Pakistan Super League (PSL) for their upcoming season, a development the PCB has indicated.

The ICC has clearly informed Bangladesh to either play their scheduled matches in India or be ready to forfeit points.

In a massive blow to BCB's quest to not send its cricket team to India for the forthcoming 2026 T20 World Cup over its players' safety, the apex body – the ICC found no tangible or security inputs suggesting any threat to Bangladeshi players, thus, for now, rejecting their plea for a venue change. The latest reports claim that the two discussed this matter during an online meeting after BCB formally wrote to them regarding their concern earlier, with the ICC sticking to its stance, also telling Bangladesh to either play their scheduled matches in India or forfeit points. All of it began after the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) directed IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release the only Bangladeshi player picked at the December auction, seamer Mustafizur Rahman (for INR 9.2 crore), over recent riots and attacks on the minorities in Bangladesh, fuelling tensions across the border. One such call led to growing anger among the BCB and their cricket fans. Irked more so for not receiving any reasonable explanation (from the BCCI) behind it, the BCB officials held back-to-back meetings over the past weekend, later deciding against travelling to India for the 20-team tournament starting early February. For that, they officially wrote to the ICC asking for their team matches to be moved out of India to “safeguard the safety and well-being of Bangladeshi players, team officials, Board members and other stakeholders.” The ICC’s position did not align with the BCB’s request, and although they did not formally issue a decision on Tuesday (Jan 6), it is expected to come by January 10. Meanwhile, Bangladesh, placed in Group C, is scheduled to play their three league matches at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata (vs WI on Feb 7, vs ITL on Feb 9 and vs ENG on Feb 14) before moving to the Wankhede in Mumbai for their final group game against Nepal on February 17. No IPL coverage in Bangladesh; Mustafizur to play PSL In response to BCCI’s order to release Mustafizur, Bangladesh’s interim government ordered the Information and Broadcasting Ministry (I&B) to ban all IPL-related broadcasts in the country, with no coverage around any event involving the cash-rich league. Besides, a Cricbuzz report also claims that the left-arm seamer has joined IPL’s counterpart, the Pakistan Super League (PSL) for their upcoming season, a development the PCB has indicated.

The ICC has clearly informed Bangladesh to either play their scheduled matches in India or be ready to forfeit points.

Blow to Bangladesh as ICC rejects request for venue change at T20 WC, says play in India or...

After Pakistan, Bangladesh has become the latest and second cricketing nation to deny playing in India at the upcoming 2026 T20 World Cup. Following the tense weekend, where first, the BCCI ordered IPL team Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladeshi seamer Mustafizur Rahman over ‘recent developments’ in the neighbouring country, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) retaliated by deciding against travelling to India, venue for their four group stage matches, for the marquee event.&nbsp;This decision has come on the back of an emergency BCB meeting on Sunday (Jan 4), where they decided to formally request the ICC to host Bangladesh’s matches outside India (in Sri Lanka, which is co-hosting the tournament). The BCB cited security reasons under the 'current circumstances', while also considering the advice from Bangladesh’s interim government.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-scg-test-3-more-150s-and-joe-root-levels-sachin-tendulkar-tally-in-tests-1767588930571">Ashes: 3 more 150s and Joe Root levels Sachin Tendulkar's tally in Tests</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, Kolkata (three games) and Mumbai (one game) were two venues for Bangladesh’s four league matches during the T20 WC in India and Sri Lanka. &nbsp;"The board reviewed the situation in detail, taking into account developments over the last 24 hours and expressed deep concern over the overall circumstances surrounding the participation of the Bangladesh national team in matches scheduled to be played in India,” a BCB statement said.&nbsp; &nbsp;“In light of this decision, BCB has formally requested the International Cricket Council (ICC), as the event authority, to consider relocating all of Bangladesh’s matches to a venue outside India,” the BCB said, “The Bangladesh Cricket Board looks forward to the ICC’s understanding of the situation and an urgent response on this matter.” &nbsp;The decision was made “to safeguard the safety and well-being of Bangladeshi players, team officials, board members and other stakeholders,” the statement further added.&nbsp; &nbsp;Per a report in Times of India (TOI), the BCB held back-to-back meetings over the weekend, reviewing Rahman’s IPL situation alongside bringing up two more in their concern call before the ICC, including the current security situation in India and the reasons behind BCCI picking on Bangladeshi players in the IPL and around their safety.<h3>What is next?</h3>Following Rahman’s IPL 2026 exit, Bangladesh’s sports minister and law advisor Asif Nazrul requested ICC to reallocate his team’s scheduled group games (in India) to Sri Lanka. On Saturday, he said that the BCB strongly condemns and protests BCCI’s call, and the next day, he welcomed the board’s decision not to travel to India, citing security concerns.&nbsp; &nbsp;“I strongly condemn and protest this. As the adviser in charge of the sports ministry, I have asked the cricket control board to explain the entire matter to ICC and write to it,” Nazrul said on Saturday night.&nbsp; &nbsp;“We welcome this decision taken in the context of the radical communal policies of the Indian cricket board,” his statement on Sunday (following BCB’s decision) read. &nbsp;Moreover, after Nazrul requested the Information and Broadcasting Ministry not to telecast IPL 2026, I&amp;B advisor Syeda Rizwana Hasan said on Sunday that any decision (around it) would only be taken after reviewing the legal basis and thoroughly examining relevant procedures. &nbsp;The publication also claims that the BCCI discussed this matter with the ICC, seeking the best way to resolve the logistical nightmare.&nbsp;

Kolkata (three games) and Mumbai (one game) were two venues for Bangladesh’s four league matches during the T20 WC in India and Sri Lanka.

After Pakistan, Bangladesh has become the latest and second cricketing nation to deny playing in India at the upcoming 2026 T20 World Cup. Following the tense weekend, where first, the BCCI ordered IPL team Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladeshi seamer Mustafizur Rahman over ‘recent developments’ in the neighbouring country, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) retaliated by deciding against travelling to India, venue for their four group stage matches, for the marquee event. This decision has come on the back of an emergency BCB meeting on Sunday (Jan 4), where they decided to formally request the ICC to host Bangladesh’s matches outside India (in Sri Lanka, which is co-hosting the tournament). The BCB cited security reasons under the 'current circumstances', while also considering the advice from Bangladesh’s interim government. Also read | Ashes: 3 more 150s and Joe Root levels Sachin Tendulkar's tally in Tests Meanwhile, Kolkata (three games) and Mumbai (one game) were two venues for Bangladesh’s four league matches during the T20 WC in India and Sri Lanka. "The board reviewed the situation in detail, taking into account developments over the last 24 hours and expressed deep concern over the overall circumstances surrounding the participation of the Bangladesh national team in matches scheduled to be played in India,” a BCB statement said. “In light of this decision, BCB has formally requested the International Cricket Council (ICC), as the event authority, to consider relocating all of Bangladesh’s matches to a venue outside India,” the BCB said, “The Bangladesh Cricket Board looks forward to the ICC’s understanding of the situation and an urgent response on this matter.” The decision was made “to safeguard the safety and well-being of Bangladeshi players, team officials, board members and other stakeholders,” the statement further added. Per a report in Times of India (TOI), the BCB held back-to-back meetings over the weekend, reviewing Rahman’s IPL situation alongside bringing up two more in their concern call before the ICC, including the current security situation in India and the reasons behind BCCI picking on Bangladeshi players in the IPL and around their safety. What is next? Following Rahman’s IPL 2026 exit, Bangladesh’s sports minister and law advisor Asif Nazrul requested ICC to reallocate his team’s scheduled group games (in India) to Sri Lanka. On Saturday, he said that the BCB strongly condemns and protests BCCI’s call, and the next day, he welcomed the board’s decision not to travel to India, citing security concerns. “I strongly condemn and protest this. As the adviser in charge of the sports ministry, I have asked the cricket control board to explain the entire matter to ICC and write to it,” Nazrul said on Saturday night. “We welcome this decision taken in the context of the radical communal policies of the Indian cricket board,” his statement on Sunday (following BCB’s decision) read. Moreover, after Nazrul requested the Information and Broadcasting Ministry not to telecast IPL 2026, I&B advisor Syeda Rizwana Hasan said on Sunday that any decision (around it) would only be taken after reviewing the legal basis and thoroughly examining relevant procedures. The publication also claims that the BCCI discussed this matter with the ICC, seeking the best way to resolve the logistical nightmare.

Kolkata (three games) and Mumbai (one game) were two venues for Bangladesh’s four league matches during the T20 WC in India and Sri Lanka.

After Pakistan, Bangladesh want its T20 WC matches to be staged outside India

England has named a power-packed 15-man provisional squad for the forthcoming 2026 T20 World Cup. The two-time winners have taken some risky calls in their quest for the record third title by dropping T20 specialist Liam Livingstone and recalling seamer Jofra Archer for the multi-team tournament. Archer, who got ruled out of the final two Ashes Tests after suffering a left side strain midway through the third game in Adelaide, returns to the side; England has also recalled quick Josh Tongue, who impressed with his maiden Ashes five-for in the recently concluded Boxing Day tie in Melbourne.<h3>Here is England’s provisional 15-man squad for the T20 WC –</h3>Harry Brook (captain), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer (World Cup only), Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Brydon Carse (Sri Lanka tour only), Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Josh Tongue, Luke Wood &nbsp;Uncapped in white-ball cricket, Tongue makes it to the provisional squad as a strike bowler, who, per head coach Brendon McCullum and T20I captain Harry Brook, can be useful on flat pitches in India and Sri Lanka, the two venues for the T20 WC.&nbsp;In Pics | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/5-players-fastest-to-4000-odi-runs-hashim-amla-babar-azam-viv-richards-shai-hope-joe-root-1760964759902">From Joe Root to Hashim Amla, 5 players fastest to 4000 ODI runs</a> &nbsp;While keeper-batter Jamie Smith is ruled out from England’s white-ball schemes, starting with a shadow tour of Sri Lanka ahead of the marquee event, Ben Duckett, the Test opener, who recently made headlines for drinking heavily on a mid-tour trip to Noosa, returned to bat at the top of the order. &nbsp;Besides them, the 2024 semi-finalists have included seasoned performers like Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Adil Rashid and Phil Salt, alongside naming the veteran keeper-batter Josh Buttler in the T20 WC squad. In the bowling department, England has named left-arm quick Luke Wood, with two spin-bowling all-rounders in Liam Dawson and Rehan Ahmed also finding places in the team.&nbsp; &nbsp;Tom Banton and Jacob Bethell are two youngsters, with Brook leading the batting attack. This squad, however, remains the same for the Sri Lanka T20Is, barring just one change.&nbsp; &nbsp;England will begin the white-ball tour with three One-Dayers starting January 22 in Colombo, before competing in as many T20Is, concluding February 3, four days before the tournament gets underway. &nbsp;Meanwhile, England is placed in Group C, alongside former two-time winners, West Indies, Bangladesh, Nepal and debutants Italy.&nbsp;England will face the West Indies in their tournament opener on Wednesday (Feb 11) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.<h3>Check out England’s white-ball squads for the away Sri Lanka tour –</h3>T20I Squad - Harry Brook (captain), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer (World Cup only), Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Brydon Carse (Sri Lanka tour only), Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Josh Tongue and Luke Wood &nbsp;ODI Squad - Harry Brook (captain), Rehan Ahmed, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Joe Root and Luke Wood

While Archer will feature in the T20 World Cup only, Brydon Carse will participate in Sri Lanka T20Is.

England has named a power-packed 15-man provisional squad for the forthcoming 2026 T20 World Cup. The two-time winners have taken some risky calls in their quest for the record third title by dropping T20 specialist Liam Livingstone and recalling seamer Jofra Archer for the multi-team tournament. Archer, who got ruled out of the final two Ashes Tests after suffering a left side strain midway through the third game in Adelaide, returns to the side; England has also recalled quick Josh Tongue, who impressed with his maiden Ashes five-for in the recently concluded Boxing Day tie in Melbourne. Here is England’s provisional 15-man squad for the T20 WC – Harry Brook (captain), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer (World Cup only), Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Brydon Carse (Sri Lanka tour only), Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Josh Tongue, Luke Wood Uncapped in white-ball cricket, Tongue makes it to the provisional squad as a strike bowler, who, per head coach Brendon McCullum and T20I captain Harry Brook, can be useful on flat pitches in India and Sri Lanka, the two venues for the T20 WC. In Pics | From Joe Root to Hashim Amla, 5 players fastest to 4000 ODI runs While keeper-batter Jamie Smith is ruled out from England’s white-ball schemes, starting with a shadow tour of Sri Lanka ahead of the marquee event, Ben Duckett, the Test opener, who recently made headlines for drinking heavily on a mid-tour trip to Noosa, returned to bat at the top of the order. Besides them, the 2024 semi-finalists have included seasoned performers like Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Adil Rashid and Phil Salt, alongside naming the veteran keeper-batter Josh Buttler in the T20 WC squad. In the bowling department, England has named left-arm quick Luke Wood, with two spin-bowling all-rounders in Liam Dawson and Rehan Ahmed also finding places in the team. Tom Banton and Jacob Bethell are two youngsters, with Brook leading the batting attack. This squad, however, remains the same for the Sri Lanka T20Is, barring just one change. England will begin the white-ball tour with three One-Dayers starting January 22 in Colombo, before competing in as many T20Is, concluding February 3, four days before the tournament gets underway. Meanwhile, England is placed in Group C, alongside former two-time winners, West Indies, Bangladesh, Nepal and debutants Italy. England will face the West Indies in their tournament opener on Wednesday (Feb 11) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Check out England’s white-ball squads for the away Sri Lanka tour – T20I Squad - Harry Brook (captain), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer (World Cup only), Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Brydon Carse (Sri Lanka tour only), Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Josh Tongue and Luke Wood ODI Squad - Harry Brook (captain), Rehan Ahmed, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Joe Root and Luke Wood

While Archer will feature in the T20 World Cup only, Brydon Carse will participate in Sri Lanka T20Is.

England pick Archer, drop Livingstone from provisional T20 World Cup squad | check full team

Australia received a massive boost ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup, with three of their first-team players, Test captain Pat Cummins, seamer Josh Hazlewood and all-rounder Tim David, all currently recovering from respective injuries, in line to be included in the provisional squad. Cummins, who recovered in time to play the third Ashes Test in Adelaide, opted out of the remainder of the series to work on his ailing back, on which he will have scans in four weeks to determine his chances of featuring in the multi-team tournament.&nbsp;While Hazlewood got ruled out of the Ashes with an Achilles issue, T20 specialist David is out of the remainder of the Big Bash League (BBL) for Hobart Hurricanes with a grade two hamstring strain he sustained during his team’s match on Boxing Day.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-gus-atkinson-ruled-out-of-scg-test-australia-lock-in-usman-khawaja-amid-his-future-uncertainty-1766981676954">Ashes: England quick ruled out of SCG Test; Australia lock in Khawaja amid his future uncertainty</a> &nbsp;Cummins, on the other hand, was out of all cricket action since suffering a lumber stress injury in his back during the away tour of the West Indies in July this year. Although he was far from regaining fitness in time for the home Ashes, per earlier reports, a rapid and early return for the third Test in Adelaide surprised everyone, as he led his team to a win and helped them retain the urn. The Test skipper then swiftly took his name off the squad for the remaining two matches, as he and Cricket Australia weren’t willing to risk his fitness heading into the T20 season. &nbsp;Head coach Andrew McDonald said Australia would name its final 15 before the deadline (Jan 2) but confirmed that the call on Cummins’ selection would be taken closer to the event.&nbsp; &nbsp;"Pat will have a scan, I think, in another four weeks, so that'll give us the information then on where he's at for the World Cup," McDonald said. "He'll be named in the squad of 15, and then we'll get that information as to where he's at." &nbsp;Meanwhile, speaking of Hazlewood and David, McDonald said the lanky quick has returned to bowling in the nets, while assuming that the recovery timeframe in David’s case would allow him to regain fitness for the T20 World Cup, which starts on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka. &nbsp;“Josh is returning to bowl. He looks as though he should be right in terms of possible timeframes,” McDonald said of Hazlewood. &nbsp;"I think the timeframe will be kind on TD as well. So, he should be available no matter what that injury is," McDonald said about Tim David’s injury on Monday.&nbsp;

Cummins and Hazlewood are out of Australia's squad for the fifth and final Ashes Test at the SCG.

Australia received a massive boost ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup, with three of their first-team players, Test captain Pat Cummins, seamer Josh Hazlewood and all-rounder Tim David, all currently recovering from respective injuries, in line to be included in the provisional squad. Cummins, who recovered in time to play the third Ashes Test in Adelaide, opted out of the remainder of the series to work on his ailing back, on which he will have scans in four weeks to determine his chances of featuring in the multi-team tournament. While Hazlewood got ruled out of the Ashes with an Achilles issue, T20 specialist David is out of the remainder of the Big Bash League (BBL) for Hobart Hurricanes with a grade two hamstring strain he sustained during his team’s match on Boxing Day. Also read | Ashes: England quick ruled out of SCG Test; Australia lock in Khawaja amid his future uncertainty Cummins, on the other hand, was out of all cricket action since suffering a lumber stress injury in his back during the away tour of the West Indies in July this year. Although he was far from regaining fitness in time for the home Ashes, per earlier reports, a rapid and early return for the third Test in Adelaide surprised everyone, as he led his team to a win and helped them retain the urn. The Test skipper then swiftly took his name off the squad for the remaining two matches, as he and Cricket Australia weren’t willing to risk his fitness heading into the T20 season. Head coach Andrew McDonald said Australia would name its final 15 before the deadline (Jan 2) but confirmed that the call on Cummins’ selection would be taken closer to the event. "Pat will have a scan, I think, in another four weeks, so that'll give us the information then on where he's at for the World Cup," McDonald said. "He'll be named in the squad of 15, and then we'll get that information as to where he's at." Meanwhile, speaking of Hazlewood and David, McDonald said the lanky quick has returned to bowling in the nets, while assuming that the recovery timeframe in David’s case would allow him to regain fitness for the T20 World Cup, which starts on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka. “Josh is returning to bowl. He looks as though he should be right in terms of possible timeframes,” McDonald said of Hazlewood. "I think the timeframe will be kind on TD as well. So, he should be available no matter what that injury is," McDonald said about Tim David’s injury on Monday.

Cummins and Hazlewood are out of Australia's squad for the fifth and final Ashes Test at the SCG.

2026 T20 World Cup: Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood in line to be included in Australia squad

The upcoming year is filled with mega sporting events, starting from as early as February, including a major multi-team cricket event. Check out what highlights the 2026 sporting calendar. 

The upcoming year is filled with mega sporting events, starting from as early as February, including a major multi-team cricket event. Check out what highlights the 2026 sporting calendar.&nbsp;

From FIFA World Cup to Commonwealth Games, here are 5 major sporting events in 2026

Australia suffered a massive blow to its quest to inflict a series whitewash on England in the ongoing Ashes after losing its Test captain Pat Cummins for the remainder of the matches. Not only this, but the Aussies could also be without him for the forthcoming T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka starting February 7 next year.&nbsp;After Australia announced the squad for the Boxing Day Test on Tuesday (Dec 23) morning, leaving out both Cummins and Nathan Lyon, head coach Andrew McDonald confirmed that the selectors and the medical staff were unwilling to put Cummins’ long-term health at risk, keeping his T20 WC chances hanging. &nbsp;The ace quick was diagnosed with a lumber stress reaction following the West Indies tour, which kept him out of action for a few months. However, an aggressive rehab program enabled him to regain full fitness in time for the concluding third Ashes Test, where he returned to captain the side, helping them win the match and secure the urn. Cummins bowled impressively in Adelaide, picking six wickets across both innings.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pat-cummins-nathan-lyon-miss-out-as-australia-name-squad-for-boxing-day-ashes-test-1766462317858">Cummins, Lyon miss out as Australia name squad for Boxing Day Ashes Test</a> &nbsp;Speaking on the same lines, McDonald confirmed that Cummins was always supposed to make a lone or limited appearance in this series, given his back injury.&nbsp; &nbsp;"He's pulled up fine," McDonald said. "He won't play any part in the rest of the series, and that was a discussion that we had a long time out around his return.&nbsp;&nbsp;"We were taking on some risk, and people that reported on that would understand the risk associated with that rebuild. We've now won the series, and that was the goal. So, to position him for further risk and jeopardise him long-term is not something that we want to do, and Pat's really comfortable with that,” he continued.<h3>Cummins’ T20 WC chances</h3>Having not played a T20I for Australia since the 2024 World Cup in the Americas, Cummins' chances of appearing in the upcoming edition look gloomy, with his fitness and forthcoming IPL 2026 playing a handy role in the final decision.&nbsp; &nbsp;McDonald confirms that all departments concerned will assess his situation, but as things stand, his selection remains under dark clouds.&nbsp; &nbsp;"That'll be an assessment," McDonald said of Cummins' T20 World Cup chances. "I'm assuming he'll have a check-in scan at some point and gather more information around where his back is at… looking forward to the World Cup, whether he'll be there or not. I can't really say. It's quite grey at the moment. We're hopeful." &nbsp;Meanwhile, the fourth Ashes Test will get underway on December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

Cummins played a handy role in helping Australia win the Adelaide Test and secure the Ashes.

Australia suffered a massive blow to its quest to inflict a series whitewash on England in the ongoing Ashes after losing its Test captain Pat Cummins for the remainder of the matches. Not only this, but the Aussies could also be without him for the forthcoming T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka starting February 7 next year. After Australia announced the squad for the Boxing Day Test on Tuesday (Dec 23) morning, leaving out both Cummins and Nathan Lyon, head coach Andrew McDonald confirmed that the selectors and the medical staff were unwilling to put Cummins’ long-term health at risk, keeping his T20 WC chances hanging. The ace quick was diagnosed with a lumber stress reaction following the West Indies tour, which kept him out of action for a few months. However, an aggressive rehab program enabled him to regain full fitness in time for the concluding third Ashes Test, where he returned to captain the side, helping them win the match and secure the urn. Cummins bowled impressively in Adelaide, picking six wickets across both innings. Also read | Cummins, Lyon miss out as Australia name squad for Boxing Day Ashes Test Speaking on the same lines, McDonald confirmed that Cummins was always supposed to make a lone or limited appearance in this series, given his back injury. "He's pulled up fine," McDonald said. "He won't play any part in the rest of the series, and that was a discussion that we had a long time out around his return. "We were taking on some risk, and people that reported on that would understand the risk associated with that rebuild. We've now won the series, and that was the goal. So, to position him for further risk and jeopardise him long-term is not something that we want to do, and Pat's really comfortable with that,” he continued. Cummins’ T20 WC chances Having not played a T20I for Australia since the 2024 World Cup in the Americas, Cummins' chances of appearing in the upcoming edition look gloomy, with his fitness and forthcoming IPL 2026 playing a handy role in the final decision. McDonald confirms that all departments concerned will assess his situation, but as things stand, his selection remains under dark clouds. "That'll be an assessment," McDonald said of Cummins' T20 World Cup chances. "I'm assuming he'll have a check-in scan at some point and gather more information around where his back is at… looking forward to the World Cup, whether he'll be there or not. I can't really say. It's quite grey at the moment. We're hopeful." Meanwhile, the fourth Ashes Test will get underway on December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

Cummins played a handy role in helping Australia win the Adelaide Test and secure the Ashes.

Bad news for Australia as Cummins out of remainder of Ashes, doubtful for T20 World Cup

The 2026 T20 World Cup will start on Feb 7, with India and Sri Lanka co-hosting the event. A total of 20 teams will compete and they have been divided into four groups of five sides each. India are placed in Group A with Pakistan, the Netherlands, Namibia and the USA. India, who have won the tournament twice and are the current champions will start their campaign against the USA at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on Feb 7.&nbsp;&nbsp;One of the biggest rivalries, India vs Pakistan is set for Feb 15 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Pakistan will play all its games in Sri Lanka. Here is India’s full match schedule, with dates, venues and group information from the opening match to the knockout stage.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-return-to-domestic-circuit-named-in-vijay-hazare-trophy-squads-1766215752363">Rohit, Virat return to domestic circuit, named in Vijay Hazare Trophy squads</a><h2>T20 World Cup 2026 groups</h2><ul><li>Group A: India, Pakistan, Netherlands, Namibia and USA</li><li>Group B: Sri Lanka, Australia, Zimbabwe, Ireland and Oman</li><li>Group C: England, West Indies, Bangladesh, Nepal and Italy</li><li>Group D: South Africa, New Zealand, Afghanistan, UAE and Canada</li></ul><h2>India’s full schedule</h2><ul><li>India vs USA - Feb 7 - Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai</li><li>India vs Namibia - Feb 12 - Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi</li><li>India vs Pakistan - Feb 15 - R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo</li><li>India vs Netherlands - Feb 18 - Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad</li></ul><h2>How many T20Is will India play before 2026 T20 World Cup?</h2>As part of their preparation for the 2026 T20 World Cup, India will host New Zealand for a five-match T20I series next year. Below is a full look at India’s build-up, including the opponents and match dates.<h2>IND vs NZ, T20Is - Full schedule&nbsp;</h2><ul><li>1st T20I: 21 Jan, 2026, at Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur (7:00 PM IST)</li><li>2nd T20I: 23 Jan, 2026, at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur (7:00 PM IST)</li><li>3rd T20I: 25 Jan, 2026, at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati (7:00 PM IST)</li><li>4th T20I: 28 Jan, 2026, at Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam (7:00 PM IST)</li><li>5th T20I: 31 Jan, 2026, at Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram (7:00 PM IST)</li></ul>

One of the biggest rivalries, India vs Pakistan is set for Feb 15 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Pakistan will play all its games in Sri Lanka. 

The 2026 T20 World Cup will start on Feb 7, with India and Sri Lanka co-hosting the event. A total of 20 teams will compete and they have been divided into four groups of five sides each. India are placed in Group A with Pakistan, the Netherlands, Namibia and the USA. India, who have won the tournament twice and are the current champions will start their campaign against the USA at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on Feb 7. One of the biggest rivalries, India vs Pakistan is set for Feb 15 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Pakistan will play all its games in Sri Lanka. Here is India’s full match schedule, with dates, venues and group information from the opening match to the knockout stage. Also Read - Rohit, Virat return to domestic circuit, named in Vijay Hazare Trophy squads T20 World Cup 2026 groups Group A: India, Pakistan, Netherlands, Namibia and USA Group B: Sri Lanka, Australia, Zimbabwe, Ireland and Oman Group C: England, West Indies, Bangladesh, Nepal and Italy Group D: South Africa, New Zealand, Afghanistan, UAE and Canada India’s full schedule India vs USA - Feb 7 - Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai India vs Namibia - Feb 12 - Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi India vs Pakistan - Feb 15 - R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo India vs Netherlands - Feb 18 - Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad How many T20Is will India play before 2026 T20 World Cup? As part of their preparation for the 2026 T20 World Cup, India will host New Zealand for a five-match T20I series next year. Below is a full look at India’s build-up, including the opponents and match dates. IND vs NZ, T20Is - Full schedule 1st T20I: 21 Jan, 2026, at Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur (7:00 PM IST) 2nd T20I: 23 Jan, 2026, at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur (7:00 PM IST) 3rd T20I: 25 Jan, 2026, at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati (7:00 PM IST) 4th T20I: 28 Jan, 2026, at Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam (7:00 PM IST) 5th T20I: 31 Jan, 2026, at Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram (7:00 PM IST)

One of the biggest rivalries, India vs Pakistan is set for Feb 15 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Pakistan will play all its games in Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

India’s T20 World Cup 2026 schedule: Check dates, venues, groups and key matches

Ishan Kishan returned to the Indian team as the selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar announced the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup on Saturday (Dec 20). Much to the surprise, Shubman Gill, India’s T20 vice-captain in T20Is, was dropped alongside Jitesh Sharma in the 15-man squad. Ishan’s return to the T20I fold comes after he led Jharkhand to their maiden Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) win on Thursday.<h2>Gill, Jitesh dropped from India squad</h2>The announcement made on Saturday saw chief of selectors Agarkar and BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia announce the squad for both the T20 World Cup and the New Zealand series. Gill, who was struggling for form, was dropped in favour of Sanju Samson, who excelled in his opener’s position on Friday in the final T20I against South Africa. Gill was also suffering from a minor injury but was expected to be fit for the series and the T20 World Cup.&nbsp;On the other hand, Jitesh’s exclusion comes after Ishan’s rise in the domestic circuit, as selectors clearly went for form. Samson and Ishan will be the team’s two wicketkeeper options, with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shreyas Iyer not even considered.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a><h2>Rinku Singh back, Axar Patel to be vice-captain</h2>In an interesting choice, Rinku Singh returned to the fold despite being dropped from the South Africa series. However, needing back-up in the tail end of the innings, Rinku’s name came as a surprise inclusion. On the other hand, with Gill missing out, Axar Patel was given the vice-captain’s role and will act as deputy to Suryakumar Yadav.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a><h2>India's squad for T20 World Cup and T20I series against New Zealand</h2>Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wicketkeeper), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel (vice-captain), Rinku Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, Washington Sundar, Ishan Kishan.

Much to the surprise, Shubman Gill, India’s T20 vice-captain in T20Is, was dropped alongside Jitesh Sharma in the 15-man squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup.  

Ishan Kishan returned to the Indian team as the selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar announced the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup on Saturday (Dec 20). Much to the surprise, Shubman Gill, India’s T20 vice-captain in T20Is, was dropped alongside Jitesh Sharma in the 15-man squad. Ishan’s return to the T20I fold comes after he led Jharkhand to their maiden Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) win on Thursday. Gill, Jitesh dropped from India squad The announcement made on Saturday saw chief of selectors Agarkar and BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia announce the squad for both the T20 World Cup and the New Zealand series. Gill, who was struggling for form, was dropped in favour of Sanju Samson, who excelled in his opener’s position on Friday in the final T20I against South Africa. Gill was also suffering from a minor injury but was expected to be fit for the series and the T20 World Cup. On the other hand, Jitesh’s exclusion comes after Ishan’s rise in the domestic circuit, as selectors clearly went for form. Samson and Ishan will be the team’s two wicketkeeper options, with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shreyas Iyer not even considered. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Rinku Singh back, Axar Patel to be vice-captain In an interesting choice, Rinku Singh returned to the fold despite being dropped from the South Africa series. However, needing back-up in the tail end of the innings, Rinku’s name came as a surprise inclusion. On the other hand, with Gill missing out, Axar Patel was given the vice-captain’s role and will act as deputy to Suryakumar Yadav. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes India's squad for T20 World Cup and T20I series against New Zealand Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wicketkeeper), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel (vice-captain), Rinku Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, Washington Sundar, Ishan Kishan.

Much to the surprise, Shubman Gill, India’s T20 vice-captain in T20Is, was dropped alongside Jitesh Sharma in the 15-man squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup. &nbsp;

T20 World Cup 2026: Ishan Kishan returns to Team India after SMAT heroics, Shubman Gill dropped amid poor form

India’s squads for the 2026 T20 World Cup is set to be announced on Saturday (Dec 20) as the hosts look to become first nation to defend their prestigious trophy. India, having won the T20 World Cup in 2024 under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy are one of the favourites to win the tournament. The selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar is set to meet in Mumbai on Saturday, as eyes will be on key players like Sanju Samson, Shreyas Iyer and others.<h2>India squad set to be announced on Saturday</h2>The selection committee, led by Agarkar, will have a huge call to make on Saturday with eyes firmly on a few big names, including Samson and Iyer. “India’s 2026 T20 World Cup squad will be announced on Saturday with the same squad being named for the New Zealand series,” a BCCI source told WION.&nbsp;India is one of the favourites to win the &nbsp;World Cup, with home advantage being a crucial factor. Captain Suryakumar Yadav is expected to travel to Mumbai overnight with India playing in the final T20I against South Africa on Friday. Gill, despite struggling with form and injury, is expected to be picked up, while Rinku Singh, who was dropped from the South Africa series, will face an anxious wait.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;The bowling department will be led by Jasprit Bumrah, who is expected to be available for the series and the World Cup. He played a key role in India’s triumph at the T20 World Cup in 2024 alongside Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;India is placed in Group A of the T20 World Cup alongside the USA, Namibia, the Netherlands and arch-rivals Pakistan. The champions begin their title defence against the USA on Feb 7 before taking on Namibia in Delhi on Feb 12. The high-voltage clash between India and Pakistan is set to take place on Feb 15 in Colombo as part of the neutral venue agreement between the nations.<h2>India’s schedule for T20 World Cup</h2>India vs USA - February 7 - Wankhede Stadium (Mumbai)India vs Namibia - February 12 - Arun Jaitley Stadium (Delhi)India vs Pakistan - February 15 - R. Premadasa Stadium (Colombo)India vs Netherlands - February 18 - Narendra Modi Stadium (Ahmedabad)

India, having won the T20 World Cup in 2024 under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy are one of the favourites to win the tournament.

India’s squads for the 2026 T20 World Cup is set to be announced on Saturday (Dec 20) as the hosts look to become first nation to defend their prestigious trophy. India, having won the T20 World Cup in 2024 under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy are one of the favourites to win the tournament. The selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar is set to meet in Mumbai on Saturday, as eyes will be on key players like Sanju Samson, Shreyas Iyer and others. India squad set to be announced on Saturday The selection committee, led by Agarkar, will have a huge call to make on Saturday with eyes firmly on a few big names, including Samson and Iyer. “India’s 2026 T20 World Cup squad will be announced on Saturday with the same squad being named for the New Zealand series,” a BCCI source told WION. India is one of the favourites to win the World Cup, with home advantage being a crucial factor. Captain Suryakumar Yadav is expected to travel to Mumbai overnight with India playing in the final T20I against South Africa on Friday. Gill, despite struggling with form and injury, is expected to be picked up, while Rinku Singh, who was dropped from the South Africa series, will face an anxious wait. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes The bowling department will be led by Jasprit Bumrah, who is expected to be available for the series and the World Cup. He played a key role in India’s triumph at the T20 World Cup in 2024 alongside Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes India is placed in Group A of the T20 World Cup alongside the USA, Namibia, the Netherlands and arch-rivals Pakistan. The champions begin their title defence against the USA on Feb 7 before taking on Namibia in Delhi on Feb 12. The high-voltage clash between India and Pakistan is set to take place on Feb 15 in Colombo as part of the neutral venue agreement between the nations. India’s schedule for T20 World Cup India vs USA - February 7 - Wankhede Stadium (Mumbai) India vs Namibia - February 12 - Arun Jaitley Stadium (Delhi) India vs Pakistan - February 15 - R. Premadasa Stadium (Colombo) India vs Netherlands - February 18 - Narendra Modi Stadium (Ahmedabad)

India, having won the T20 World Cup in 2024 under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy are one of the favourites to win the tournament.

BCCI to announce India's 2026 T20 World Cup squad on Saturday, eyes on Samson, Iyer - Source

India’s 2024 T20 World Cup captain Rohit Sharma and Tilak Varma on Wednesday (Dec 3) unrelieved a new jersey as the nation prepares for the 2026 T20 World Cup on home soil. India, defending champions having won the 2024 edition, will walk into the tournament as favourites as they look to stamp their authority and claim a third title. The latest jersey was unveiled during the inning break of India vs South Africa second ODI in Raipur, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Devajit Saikia also present.<h2>Rohit unveils new T20 jersey for India</h2>“From cheering as a young fan to lifting trophies for the country, this game has given me memories for a lifetime. Now, as I step into a new chapter, the pride remains the same. This new Team India jersey reminds us that whether you’re in the stands or on the field, we all wear the same colours and believe in the same dream for India,” Rohit said while speaking on the unveiling of the new jersey.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;The new jersey draws inspiration from the 1990s and the kit introduces contemporary pattern innovation with a retro twist, while retaining the legendary neckline from the 2024 T20 World Cup-winning jersey. India will be led by Suryakumar Yadav for the tournament, who was handed the permanent T20I captaincy after Rohit Sharma retired from the format.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;India, placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, the USA, the Netherlands and Namibia, will start their campaign against the USA on February 7 next year. The tournament will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.&nbsp;India will begin their T20 World Cup campaign against the USA on Saturday (Feb 7) in Mumbai before facing Namibia in Delhi on Feb 12.

India, placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, the USA, the Netherlands and Namibia, will start their T20 World Cup campaign against the USA on February 7 next year. The tournament will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.

India’s 2024 T20 World Cup captain Rohit Sharma and Tilak Varma on Wednesday (Dec 3) unrelieved a new jersey as the nation prepares for the 2026 T20 World Cup on home soil. India, defending champions having won the 2024 edition, will walk into the tournament as favourites as they look to stamp their authority and claim a third title. The latest jersey was unveiled during the inning break of India vs South Africa second ODI in Raipur, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Devajit Saikia also present. Rohit unveils new T20 jersey for India “From cheering as a young fan to lifting trophies for the country, this game has given me memories for a lifetime. Now, as I step into a new chapter, the pride remains the same. This new Team India jersey reminds us that whether you’re in the stands or on the field, we all wear the same colours and believe in the same dream for India,” Rohit said while speaking on the unveiling of the new jersey. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes The new jersey draws inspiration from the 1990s and the kit introduces contemporary pattern innovation with a retro twist, while retaining the legendary neckline from the 2024 T20 World Cup-winning jersey. India will be led by Suryakumar Yadav for the tournament, who was handed the permanent T20I captaincy after Rohit Sharma retired from the format. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes India, placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, the USA, the Netherlands and Namibia, will start their campaign against the USA on February 7 next year. The tournament will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. India will begin their T20 World Cup campaign against the USA on Saturday (Feb 7) in Mumbai before facing Namibia in Delhi on Feb 12.

India, placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, the USA, the Netherlands and Namibia, will start their T20 World Cup campaign against the USA on February 7 next year. The tournament will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.

Rohit Sharma unveils India's 2026 T20 World Cup jersey, says 'pride remains the same'

Former India spinner Ravi Ashwin says the opposition teams will no longer go after Jasprit Bumrah in T20Is but Abhishek Sharma and Varun Chakravarthy. Both the players have been sensation for India since the transition of the team post T20 World Cup win in 2024. The players are currently playing five-match T20I series in Australia and have been the best performers for India in their respective department. With nearly three months to go for the T20 World Cup, Ashwin marked them as he hurdles for the teams to get an edge over India.<h2>Ashwin picks Abhishek and Varun s obstacles for other teams over Bumrah</h2>“So far, I was saying that handling Jasprit Bumrah is critical, but I would now say, from what I have seen, Tim David handled Varun Chakaravarthy. I am thinking teams will go for Abhishek Sharma and Varun Chakaravarthy if they have to get past India,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel after India won the fourth T20I to take 2-1 lead against Australia on Thursday (Nov 6).Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-virat-kohli-is-1999-world-cup-winning-australia-captain-s-big-statement-about-indian-star-batter-1762443201714">'Virat Kohli is...': Ex-Australia captain's BIG STATEMENT about Indian&nbsp;batter</a>"Against Abhishek Sharma, we will definitely see in this series the plan that is made, and they will definitely invite that. Whatever teams are coming, they will come prepared for the World Cup. Similarly, against Varun Chakaravarthy, because that will give them leverage in that T20 World Cup," he added.<h2>How Abhishek and Varun fared since India won T20 World Cup in 2024</h2>Abhishek, a left-hand opening batter, and Varun, a right-arm mystery spinner, have not only performed the best among Indians but all full member players since India's T20 World Cup in June 2024. Since the title win, Abhishek has hit 989 runs in 28 matches at an average of 36 with six fifties and two tons - the second highest among all full member players. He has also hit 65 sixes in the time period and scored the runs at a belligerent strike rate of 190. As for Varun, the spinner has taken 43 wickets in 22 matches at an average of 13 and best of 5/13 - the most for any player from a Test playing country.&nbsp;

Abhishek, a left-hand opening batter, and Varun, a right-arm mystery spinner, have not only performed the best among Indians but all full member players since India's T20 World Cup in June 2024.

Former India spinner Ravi Ashwin says the opposition teams will no longer go after Jasprit Bumrah in T20Is but Abhishek Sharma and Varun Chakravarthy. Both the players have been sensation for India since the transition of the team post T20 World Cup win in 2024. The players are currently playing five-match T20I series in Australia and have been the best performers for India in their respective department. With nearly three months to go for the T20 World Cup, Ashwin marked them as he hurdles for the teams to get an edge over India. Ashwin picks Abhishek and Varun s obstacles for other teams over Bumrah “So far, I was saying that handling Jasprit Bumrah is critical, but I would now say, from what I have seen, Tim David handled Varun Chakaravarthy. I am thinking teams will go for Abhishek Sharma and Varun Chakaravarthy if they have to get past India,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel after India won the fourth T20I to take 2-1 lead against Australia on Thursday (Nov 6). Also Read - 'Virat Kohli is...': Ex-Australia captain's BIG STATEMENT about Indian batter "Against Abhishek Sharma, we will definitely see in this series the plan that is made, and they will definitely invite that. Whatever teams are coming, they will come prepared for the World Cup. Similarly, against Varun Chakaravarthy, because that will give them leverage in that T20 World Cup," he added. How Abhishek and Varun fared since India won T20 World Cup in 2024 Abhishek, a left-hand opening batter, and Varun, a right-arm mystery spinner, have not only performed the best among Indians but all full member players since India's T20 World Cup in June 2024. Since the title win, Abhishek has hit 989 runs in 28 matches at an average of 36 with six fifties and two tons - the second highest among all full member players. He has also hit 65 sixes in the time period and scored the runs at a belligerent strike rate of 190. As for Varun, the spinner has taken 43 wickets in 22 matches at an average of 13 and best of 5/13 - the most for any player from a Test playing country.

Abhishek, a left-hand opening batter, and Varun, a right-arm mystery spinner, have not only performed the best among Indians but all full member players since India's T20 World Cup in June 2024.

Ashwin picks THESE two players ahead of Bumrah as obstacles for other teams to get past India in T20Is

Shreyas Iyer continues to make headlines in Indian Cricket, lately for injuring himself and subsequently falling in a tight spot for any foreseeable cricketing action. While Iyer continues to recover from a rib cage injury he sustained during the final ODI against Australia in Sydney, the latest report suggests a gloomy future for the newly appointed One-Day vice-captain. Following suffering a ruptured spleen, as confirmed by the BCCI in an official statement, Iyer underwent a medical procedure to stop internal bleeding caused by it, ruling him out of all cricket action for the remainder of this year.&nbsp;According to RevSportz, Iyer is ruled out of all competitive cricket for the next two months, which will also exclude him from India’s next ODI series against South Africa, scheduled to start late next month. Although he isn’t currently part of the T20I team, his absence from the 2026 T20 World Cup conversation could also hurt the Men in Blue; however, according to reports, he may also miss the multi-team event due to a lack of cricketing action leading up to it. Even if he recovers (in time) within the assumed period, he could feature in the New Zealand ODIs early next year. &nbsp;However, should he miss New Zealand ODIs, his next India assignment could be the away white-ball tour of England in July 2026.<h3>Iyer thanks fans in a social media post</h3>Since suffering this horrific injury, Iyer has been hospitalised in Sydney, with his near and dear ones, including one of his family members, supporting him throughout this recovery process. Currently out of the ICU, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-shares-recovery-update-in-grateful-social-media-post-1761803236076">Iyer posted a grateful social media message</a> on Thursday, thanking fans for their constant support, while also updating everyone on his status. &nbsp;“I'm currently in recovery process and getting better, every passing day. I'm deeply grateful to see all the kind wishes and support I've received- it truly means a lot. Thank you for keeping me in your thoughts,” Iyer wrote on his X handle.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/pgE6TKLbg7">pic.twitter.com/pgE6TKLbg7</a>&mdash; Shreyas Iyer (@ShreyasIyer15) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShreyasIyer15/status/1983746429815529529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, upon returning to the Indian Team for the first time since March this year, Iyer batted in the first two ODIs against Australia, scoring a fifty in the second game in Adelaide before this injury ruled him out of the match. India, however, didn’t need his services in the first place as Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli helped the team complete the moderate chase with nine wickets remaining.

In three ODIs against Australia, Iyer scored 72 runs in two innings, including a hard-fought fifty in the second game in Adelaide.

Shreyas Iyer continues to make headlines in Indian Cricket, lately for injuring himself and subsequently falling in a tight spot for any foreseeable cricketing action. While Iyer continues to recover from a rib cage injury he sustained during the final ODI against Australia in Sydney, the latest report suggests a gloomy future for the newly appointed One-Day vice-captain. Following suffering a ruptured spleen, as confirmed by the BCCI in an official statement, Iyer underwent a medical procedure to stop internal bleeding caused by it, ruling him out of all cricket action for the remainder of this year. According to RevSportz, Iyer is ruled out of all competitive cricket for the next two months, which will also exclude him from India’s next ODI series against South Africa, scheduled to start late next month. Although he isn’t currently part of the T20I team, his absence from the 2026 T20 World Cup conversation could also hurt the Men in Blue; however, according to reports, he may also miss the multi-team event due to a lack of cricketing action leading up to it. Even if he recovers (in time) within the assumed period, he could feature in the New Zealand ODIs early next year. However, should he miss New Zealand ODIs, his next India assignment could be the away white-ball tour of England in July 2026. Iyer thanks fans in a social media post Since suffering this horrific injury, Iyer has been hospitalised in Sydney, with his near and dear ones, including one of his family members, supporting him throughout this recovery process. Currently out of the ICU, Iyer posted a grateful social media message on Thursday, thanking fans for their constant support, while also updating everyone on his status. “I'm currently in recovery process and getting better, every passing day. I'm deeply grateful to see all the kind wishes and support I've received- it truly means a lot. Thank you for keeping me in your thoughts,” Iyer wrote on his X handle.

In three ODIs against Australia, Iyer scored 72 runs in two innings, including a hard-fought fifty in the second game in Adelaide.

Massive blow to India as Iyer ruled out for remainder of 2025, doubtful for 2026 T20 WC – Report

Suryakumar Yadav vows to treat the forthcoming five-match T20I series against Australia as an extension of their ongoing process of preparing the best side for the home World Cup next year. Speaking to the media ahead of the first game in Canberra on Wednesday (Oct 29), the Indian T20I skipper SKY said the team is wary of the playing conditions; instead of taking it as a separate overseas challenge, they will use this as a chance to formalise the combination.&nbsp;“There is not much change in combination. Last time when we went to South Africa, there also we played with one fast bowler, one all-rounder and three spinners. So, conditions are similar — bouncy tracks,” Suryakumar said.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-referee-chris-broad-alleges-icc-of-blatant-leniency-towards-india-accuses-bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-1761630656241">Former referee Chris Broad alleges ICC of ‘blatant leniency’ towards India, accuses Ganguly of…</a> &nbsp;Earlier, the SKY-led Indian Team won this edition’s Asia Cup (played in the T20 format) in Dubai, beating Pakistan in the final. With the star-studded side looking dominant in this format, Suryakumar vowed to let his team play this way only, even in Down Under. &nbsp;“Our preparation (for T20 World Cup 2026) obviously started with the Asia Cup. Because since then, we started playing T20s. And it will continue like this,” he said. “We are not looking like we have come to a foreign country to play. So, we will see this series in a different way. We will look at it in the same way. It’s a build-up to the World Cup,” he added. &nbsp;Meanwhile, all T20Is will take place on the east coast, with Manuka Oval hosting the opener. The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) will stage the second game two days later, before the action moves to Hobart (3rd T20I) and Gold Coast (4th T20I) for the next two games. The Gabba in Brisbane will host the final T20I on Saturday (Nov 8).&nbsp;<h3>India’s T20I squad for Australia series –</h3>Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill (vice-captain), Tilak Varma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Sanju Samson, Rinku Singh and Washington Sundar

With the star-studded side looking dominant in this format, Suryakumar vowed to let his team play this way only, even in Down Under.

Suryakumar Yadav vows to treat the forthcoming five-match T20I series against Australia as an extension of their ongoing process of preparing the best side for the home World Cup next year. Speaking to the media ahead of the first game in Canberra on Wednesday (Oct 29), the Indian T20I skipper SKY said the team is wary of the playing conditions; instead of taking it as a separate overseas challenge, they will use this as a chance to formalise the combination. “There is not much change in combination. Last time when we went to South Africa, there also we played with one fast bowler, one all-rounder and three spinners. So, conditions are similar — bouncy tracks,” Suryakumar said. Also read | Former referee Chris Broad alleges ICC of ‘blatant leniency’ towards India, accuses Ganguly of… Earlier, the SKY-led Indian Team won this edition’s Asia Cup (played in the T20 format) in Dubai, beating Pakistan in the final. With the star-studded side looking dominant in this format, Suryakumar vowed to let his team play this way only, even in Down Under. “Our preparation (for T20 World Cup 2026) obviously started with the Asia Cup. Because since then, we started playing T20s. And it will continue like this,” he said. “We are not looking like we have come to a foreign country to play. So, we will see this series in a different way. We will look at it in the same way. It’s a build-up to the World Cup,” he added. Meanwhile, all T20Is will take place on the east coast, with Manuka Oval hosting the opener. The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) will stage the second game two days later, before the action moves to Hobart (3rd T20I) and Gold Coast (4th T20I) for the next two games. The Gabba in Brisbane will host the final T20I on Saturday (Nov 8). India’s T20I squad for Australia series – Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill (vice-captain), Tilak Varma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Sanju Samson, Rinku Singh and Washington Sundar

With the star-studded side looking dominant in this format, Suryakumar vowed to let his team play this way only, even in Down Under.

Suryakumar plays down ‘foreign conditions’ threat ahead of Australia T20Is; vows to treat it as…

Two of the three ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 tickets via the Asia/East Asia-Pacific Qualifier have been snatched by Nepal and Oman.&nbsp;With UAE's win against Samoa, and with the Emiratis set to take on Japan on Thursday, Oman and Nepal had their top three finishes guaranteed before their meeting against each other in Super Six action.&nbsp;Five of the first six matches in the Super Six stage went to the final over to highlight the fine margins between the sides, with the Nepalis prevailing in two nail-biters to book their tickets.&nbsp;Unbeaten in group action, Nepal brought two carry over points to the Super Six stage before their final-ball victories against UAE and Qatar.&nbsp;Dipendra Singh Airee was taken for six by Dhruv Parashar to make the equation just three runs off the final three balls for the Emiratis, though a catch hit to Sundeep Jora and two run outs back-to-back meant a last-gasp Nepal victory.&nbsp;A day later, Rohit Paudel's team pulled another win out of the fire, with Qatar 97/1 inside 12 overs chasing 148.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/5-players-with-most-runs-in-women-s-odi-world-cup-history-debbie-hockley-mithali-raj-janette-brittin-charlotte-edwards-suzie-bates-1757606297874">From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history</a>&nbsp;Sandeep Lamichhane (5/18) sparked a collapse, and with only two wickets in hand needing 10, the Qataris left themselves too much to do.&nbsp;Oman in a similar vein brought over two over two points to the Super Six stage and cruised to a first win over Qatar, comfortably defending 172.&nbsp;They found proceedings more difficult against United Arab Emirates, though the hitting of Nadeem Khan rescued the Omanis, taking Muhammad Arfan for a four and a six in consecutive deliveries to eventually win with two balls to spare.&nbsp;The Emiratis meanwhile hold third position for now after a strong win over Samoa, and will take on a spirited Japan side in a crucial affair itching to make amends for their narrow defeat to Qatar.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-women-s-odi-world-cup-2025-all-you-need-to-know-about-indian-women-s-team-schedule-squad-fixtures-and-more-1758556378933">Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more</a>&nbsp;The Qataris were on the canvas, needing 32 off the final three overs and with only three wickets in hand, before a final flurry from Muhammad Ikramullah (16 not out off 9) and Daniel Archer (12 not out from 8) completed the snatch and grab with two balls to spare.&nbsp;The Samoans to this point have been unable to emulate their strong group stage performance where they beat regional rivals Papua New Guinea, and have been mathematically eliminated from a top three spot.&nbsp;Qatar are still mathematically alive, though need other results to go their way, a win over the Samoans on Thursday, and the edge on net run rate to remain alive.<h2>Remaining Fixtures&nbsp;</h2>15 October: Oman v Nepal16 October: United Arab Emirates v Japan16 October: Qatar v Samoa17 October: Japan v Oman17 October: Samoa v Nepal

Unbeaten in group action, Nepal brought two carry over points to the Super Six stage before their final-ball victories against UAE and Qatar.

Two of the three ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 tickets via the Asia/East Asia-Pacific Qualifier have been snatched by Nepal and Oman. With UAE's win against Samoa, and with the Emiratis set to take on Japan on Thursday, Oman and Nepal had their top three finishes guaranteed before their meeting against each other in Super Six action. Five of the first six matches in the Super Six stage went to the final over to highlight the fine margins between the sides, with the Nepalis prevailing in two nail-biters to book their tickets. Unbeaten in group action, Nepal brought two carry over points to the Super Six stage before their final-ball victories against UAE and Qatar. Dipendra Singh Airee was taken for six by Dhruv Parashar to make the equation just three runs off the final three balls for the Emiratis, though a catch hit to Sundeep Jora and two run outs back-to-back meant a last-gasp Nepal victory. A day later, Rohit Paudel's team pulled another win out of the fire, with Qatar 97/1 inside 12 overs chasing 148. ALSO READ | From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history Sandeep Lamichhane (5/18) sparked a collapse, and with only two wickets in hand needing 10, the Qataris left themselves too much to do. Oman in a similar vein brought over two over two points to the Super Six stage and cruised to a first win over Qatar, comfortably defending 172. They found proceedings more difficult against United Arab Emirates, though the hitting of Nadeem Khan rescued the Omanis, taking Muhammad Arfan for a four and a six in consecutive deliveries to eventually win with two balls to spare. The Emiratis meanwhile hold third position for now after a strong win over Samoa, and will take on a spirited Japan side in a crucial affair itching to make amends for their narrow defeat to Qatar. ALSO READ | Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more The Qataris were on the canvas, needing 32 off the final three overs and with only three wickets in hand, before a final flurry from Muhammad Ikramullah (16 not out off 9) and Daniel Archer (12 not out from 8) completed the snatch and grab with two balls to spare. The Samoans to this point have been unable to emulate their strong group stage performance where they beat regional rivals Papua New Guinea, and have been mathematically eliminated from a top three spot. Qatar are still mathematically alive, though need other results to go their way, a win over the Samoans on Thursday, and the edge on net run rate to remain alive. Remaining Fixtures 15 October: Oman v Nepal 16 October: United Arab Emirates v Japan 16 October: Qatar v Samoa 17 October: Japan v Oman 17 October: Samoa v Nepal

Unbeaten in group action, Nepal brought two carry over points to the Super Six stage before their final-ball victories against UAE and Qatar.

Nepal, Oman officially seal 2026 T20 World Cup berth after UAE's win over Samoa

The 2026 men’s T20 World Cup is the next major ICC tournament, scheduled for early next year. Co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, this 20-team extravaganza is likely to begin on February 7, with the final scheduled just over a month later on March 8. While five venues in India would host its scheduled matches, including one of the semis and the final, two from Sri Lanka will stage the scheduled games in the Island Nation. The grand finale would either be in Ahmedabad or Colombo (depending on Pakistan’s position in the tournament) because of a mutual agreement between India and Pakistan not to tour each other’s country for any bilateral or ICC/ACC event due to the tense geopolitical situation.&nbsp;While the ICC continues to work on the final draft of the schedule, an ESPNcricinfo report suggests that the format will be similar to that of the past edition (in the Americas in 2024), where 20 teams will be divided into four groups of five each. The top two teams from each group will qualify for the Super Eights, where once again the eight teams will be divided into two groups of four teams each. The top two teams from each group will then advance to the semis, with the respective winners qualifying for the finals.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2025-ind-vs-pak-suryakumar-yadav-salman-agha-welcome-aggression-as-long-as-it-stays-on-field-1757423699501">Asia Cup 2025, IND vs PAK: Suryakumar, Salman Agha welcome ‘aggression’ as long as it stays on field</a> &nbsp;Team India is the defending champion, having beaten South Africa in a tense final in Barbados. &nbsp;So far, 15 teams have qualified for the tournament, including India, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, South Africa, the USA, West Indies, New Zealand, Pakistan, Ireland, Canada, the Netherlands and Italy. Of the five remaining teams, two will qualify from the Africa regional qualifier, and three from the Asia and East Asia Pacific qualifier. &nbsp;Meanwhile, the BCCI and India have plenty at their disposal in the first quarter of 2026. Starting with the WPL, the schedule of which hasn’t been finalised yet, India will stage and co-host several other marquee tournaments, including the 2026 T20 World Cup. &nbsp; &nbsp;While the board has kept the January-February window for the five-team tournament, after which the 2026 T20 WC gets underway, the marquee IPL 2026 would likely begin a week after the final, with its tentative window being March 15 to May 31.&nbsp; On the international calendar front, India will host New Zealand for a short white-ball series from January 11 to 31.&nbsp;

While the ICC continues to work on the final draft of the schedule, the format is expected to be similar to that of the past edition (in the Americas in 2024), where 20 teams will be divided into four groups of five each.

The 2026 men’s T20 World Cup is the next major ICC tournament, scheduled for early next year. Co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, this 20-team extravaganza is likely to begin on February 7, with the final scheduled just over a month later on March 8. While five venues in India would host its scheduled matches, including one of the semis and the final, two from Sri Lanka will stage the scheduled games in the Island Nation. The grand finale would either be in Ahmedabad or Colombo (depending on Pakistan’s position in the tournament) because of a mutual agreement between India and Pakistan not to tour each other’s country for any bilateral or ICC/ACC event due to the tense geopolitical situation. While the ICC continues to work on the final draft of the schedule, an ESPNcricinfo report suggests that the format will be similar to that of the past edition (in the Americas in 2024), where 20 teams will be divided into four groups of five each. The top two teams from each group will qualify for the Super Eights, where once again the eight teams will be divided into two groups of four teams each. The top two teams from each group will then advance to the semis, with the respective winners qualifying for the finals. Also read | Asia Cup 2025, IND vs PAK: Suryakumar, Salman Agha welcome ‘aggression’ as long as it stays on field Team India is the defending champion, having beaten South Africa in a tense final in Barbados. So far, 15 teams have qualified for the tournament, including India, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, South Africa, the USA, West Indies, New Zealand, Pakistan, Ireland, Canada, the Netherlands and Italy. Of the five remaining teams, two will qualify from the Africa regional qualifier, and three from the Asia and East Asia Pacific qualifier. Meanwhile, the BCCI and India have plenty at their disposal in the first quarter of 2026. Starting with the WPL, the schedule of which hasn’t been finalised yet, India will stage and co-host several other marquee tournaments, including the 2026 T20 World Cup. While the board has kept the January-February window for the five-team tournament, after which the 2026 T20 WC gets underway, the marquee IPL 2026 would likely begin a week after the final, with its tentative window being March 15 to May 31. On the international calendar front, India will host New Zealand for a short white-ball series from January 11 to 31.

While the ICC continues to work on the final draft of the schedule, the format is expected to be similar to that of the past edition (in the Americas in 2024), where 20 teams will be divided into four groups of five each.

2026 T20 World Cup: Tentative dates out for 20-team tournament; likely beginning on Feb 7

The Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) has apparently asked MS Dhoni to take up the mentorship role with the men’s team for the 2026 T20 World Cup, per the latest reports. With India and Sri Lanka co-hosting this edition (in February-March next year), Dhoni’s inputs could come in handy for the Men in Blue in their title defence. Addressing this rumour, Dhoni’s former India and IPL teammate and all-rounder Manoj Tiwary cheekily replied, saying, ‘Did he pick up the phone? Because it is difficult to reach him on the phone.'&nbsp;“Woh phone uthaye hain na? Jahaan tak mujhe pataa hain phone pe milna bohot mushkil hai woh! Message ka reply bhi milta bohot kam hai. Bohot players apne samay main kahaa bhi hai. Pataa nahi woh reply kya karenge…woh message padhenge ki nahi padhenge (Did he pick up the phone? Because it is difficult to reach him on the phone. Replies to messages from him are also sporadic; many players have said this. Will he read the message or not? We don’t know,” Tiwary said when asked by news agency ANI. &nbsp;“The first thing is whether he will accept the role or not. It’s very difficult for me to predict what impact he will have. His experience as a captain and as a player will be very useful, as the new players emerging today and becoming stars of the Indian team give him a lot of respect. The pairing of MS Dhoni and Gautam Gambhir will also be worth watching,” Tiwary added.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2025-uae-heat-forces-change-in-match-timings-check-out-india-pakistan-game-time-1756572453054">Asia Cup: UAE heat forces change in match timings; check out what time the IND-PAK game will start</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, Dhoni had earlier taken over a similar role during the 2021 edition of the T20 WC (in the UAE), where Virat Kohli-led Indian Team failed to advance to the next round after losing two of their four contested group stage matches.&nbsp; &nbsp;On the contrary, as a former Indian captain, Dhoni won all ICC white-ball trophies and is the only man to date to accomplish this feat. Even in the Indian Premier League, Dhoni is the joint-most successful skipper, with five IPL trophies to his name. He also won two now-defunct Champions League T20 competitions, a testament to his greatness as a leader. &nbsp;The Men in Blue will next feature in the 2025 Asia Cup, the eight-team tournament to be played in the T20 format starting September 9 in the UAE. India is placed in Group A alongside arch-rivals Pakistan, the hosts and Oman.&nbsp;

With India and Sri Lanka co-hosting this edition (in February-March next year), Dhoni’s inputs could come in handy for the Men in Blue in their title defence.

The Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) has apparently asked MS Dhoni to take up the mentorship role with the men’s team for the 2026 T20 World Cup, per the latest reports. With India and Sri Lanka co-hosting this edition (in February-March next year), Dhoni’s inputs could come in handy for the Men in Blue in their title defence. Addressing this rumour, Dhoni’s former India and IPL teammate and all-rounder Manoj Tiwary cheekily replied, saying, ‘Did he pick up the phone? Because it is difficult to reach him on the phone.' “Woh phone uthaye hain na? Jahaan tak mujhe pataa hain phone pe milna bohot mushkil hai woh! Message ka reply bhi milta bohot kam hai. Bohot players apne samay main kahaa bhi hai. Pataa nahi woh reply kya karenge…woh message padhenge ki nahi padhenge (Did he pick up the phone? Because it is difficult to reach him on the phone. Replies to messages from him are also sporadic; many players have said this. Will he read the message or not? We don’t know,” Tiwary said when asked by news agency ANI. “The first thing is whether he will accept the role or not. It’s very difficult for me to predict what impact he will have. His experience as a captain and as a player will be very useful, as the new players emerging today and becoming stars of the Indian team give him a lot of respect. The pairing of MS Dhoni and Gautam Gambhir will also be worth watching,” Tiwary added. Also read | Asia Cup: UAE heat forces change in match timings; check out what time the IND-PAK game will start Meanwhile, Dhoni had earlier taken over a similar role during the 2021 edition of the T20 WC (in the UAE), where Virat Kohli-led Indian Team failed to advance to the next round after losing two of their four contested group stage matches. On the contrary, as a former Indian captain, Dhoni won all ICC white-ball trophies and is the only man to date to accomplish this feat. Even in the Indian Premier League, Dhoni is the joint-most successful skipper, with five IPL trophies to his name. He also won two now-defunct Champions League T20 competitions, a testament to his greatness as a leader. The Men in Blue will next feature in the 2025 Asia Cup, the eight-team tournament to be played in the T20 format starting September 9 in the UAE. India is placed in Group A alongside arch-rivals Pakistan, the hosts and Oman.

With India and Sri Lanka co-hosting this edition (in February-March next year), Dhoni’s inputs could come in handy for the Men in Blue in their title defence.

Is MS Dhoni joining India's backroom staff for 2026 T20 World Cup? Ex-teammate addresses rumour

After clean-sweeping the West Indies across Tests and T20Is, Australia has begun preparations for the upcoming home white-ball leg against South Africa and, most importantly, for next year’s T20 World Cup in Asia. With plenty of those who won the T20 WC four years ago unavailable for selection, Australia is looking forward to striking a balance with new members, especially in the top order. With the Proteas T20Is just around the corner, the hosts have locked in World Cup-winning opening pair of captain Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head as openers in the shortest format for the foreseeable future.&nbsp;Having tried plenty of options earlier, including Jake Fraser-McGurk and Matthew Short, among others, the former winners feel the tried and tested pair of Marsh and Head is the best way forward in white-ball cricket.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-how-vaibhav-suryavanshi-arrival-forced-sanju-samson-to-part-ways-with-rajasthan-royals-1754750063741">IPL 2026: How Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s arrival forced Sanju Samson to part ways with Rajasthan Royals</a> &nbsp;Marsh, who opened in the recently concluded West Indies T20Is, has peaked batting at number three in the T20Is, scoring 1276 runs at over 140 in 40 outings, but never opened with Head in T20 cricket. However, in ODIs, this pair averages over 50&nbsp;and strike at over 12 runs per over from eight partnerships. &nbsp;"It'll be myself and Heady up the top for the foreseeable future," Marsh said while speaking with the reporters in Darwin on Friday (Aug 8). “Obviously, we've played a lot together, (we've) got a great relationship, so (we'll) start there.”<h3>Talks on David’s batting order &nbsp;</h3>Australia named a potent squad for the home series against South Africa, starting Sunday (Aug 10), with Glenn Maxwell and Tim David also part of the preferred XI.&nbsp; &nbsp;David, who recently made headlines for his 37-ball hundred against the Windies, is said to be promoted up the order for this series, with one eye on preparing the final XI for the 2026 T20 World Cup. &nbsp;"We've spoken about it … we saw that in the Caribbean, that he came in earlier than he would normally," Marsh said. "His skill set is made for that. &nbsp;"The more balls he faces, hopefully the more games he wins us." &nbsp;Here is Australia’s T20I squad for the South Africa series – &nbsp;Mitchell Marsh (captain), Sean Abbott, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matt Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Owen, Matthew Short and Adam Zampa

With plenty of those who won the T20 WC four years ago unavailable for selection, Australia is looking forward to striking a balance with new members, especially in the top order.

After clean-sweeping the West Indies across Tests and T20Is, Australia has begun preparations for the upcoming home white-ball leg against South Africa and, most importantly, for next year’s T20 World Cup in Asia. With plenty of those who won the T20 WC four years ago unavailable for selection, Australia is looking forward to striking a balance with new members, especially in the top order. With the Proteas T20Is just around the corner, the hosts have locked in World Cup-winning opening pair of captain Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head as openers in the shortest format for the foreseeable future. Having tried plenty of options earlier, including Jake Fraser-McGurk and Matthew Short, among others, the former winners feel the tried and tested pair of Marsh and Head is the best way forward in white-ball cricket. Also read | IPL 2026: How Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s arrival forced Sanju Samson to part ways with Rajasthan Royals Marsh, who opened in the recently concluded West Indies T20Is, has peaked batting at number three in the T20Is, scoring 1276 runs at over 140 in 40 outings, but never opened with Head in T20 cricket. However, in ODIs, this pair averages over 50 and strike at over 12 runs per over from eight partnerships. "It'll be myself and Heady up the top for the foreseeable future," Marsh said while speaking with the reporters in Darwin on Friday (Aug 8). “Obviously, we've played a lot together, (we've) got a great relationship, so (we'll) start there.” Talks on David’s batting order Australia named a potent squad for the home series against South Africa, starting Sunday (Aug 10), with Glenn Maxwell and Tim David also part of the preferred XI. David, who recently made headlines for his 37-ball hundred against the Windies, is said to be promoted up the order for this series, with one eye on preparing the final XI for the 2026 T20 World Cup. "We've spoken about it … we saw that in the Caribbean, that he came in earlier than he would normally," Marsh said. "His skill set is made for that. "The more balls he faces, hopefully the more games he wins us." Here is Australia’s T20I squad for the South Africa series – Mitchell Marsh (captain), Sean Abbott, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matt Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Owen, Matthew Short and Adam Zampa

With plenty of those who won the T20 WC four years ago unavailable for selection, Australia is looking forward to striking a balance with new members, especially in the top order.

Australia lock in WC-winning opening pair for Proteas series, 2026 T20 World Cup

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