Australia batter Steve Smith survived a close call on day 1 (Aug 13) of the ongoing first Test against Bangladesh in Darwin which he used to play a lone surviving hand in Australia's otherwise dismal batting performance. Australia were bowled out for 198 in the first innings with Smith scoring 71 as Hasan Mahmud dismantled the hosts with 6/55. Smith, after the day's play, acknowledged that he felt a knick but thanked the DRS for the reprive which he made complete use of, but alas, other Aussie batters could not help him much.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-couldn-t-believe-it-auqib-nabi-opens-up-on-india-call-up-1786638901602">‘I couldn’t believe it’: Auqib Nabi opens up on India call-up</a><h2>Was Smith out before DRS turned decision?</h2>The moment happened in the 21st over when Smith knicked one behind for Bangladesh keeper Litton Das to complete a simple catch. The visitors appealed but the on-field umpire wasn't convinced. Bangladesh opted for DRS and Smith had already started walking back to the dressing room before a flatline on snicko reprived him.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">&quot;Did you nick that?&quot; &quot;I think so, yeah.&quot; Watch Steve Smith&#39;s full press conference after day one of <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/AUSvBAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvBAN</a>: <a href="https://t.co/UPFVhNe5II">https://t.co/UPFVhNe5II</a> <a href="https://t.co/hzoOHz4xVR">pic.twitter.com/hzoOHz4xVR</a>&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://x.com/cricketcomau/status/2087824389308142061?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Talking at the press conference after the match, Smith was asked if he had knicked the ball, to which he said: "I think so. Yeah. I was lucky. Yeah, it seems that way. Yeah. You got to take it sometimes. Normally, it’s pretty good. Yeah, maybe I didn’t nick it. I don’t know but I certainly felt something. If I had been given out, I was going to walk off. But yeah, technology saved me today, I guess."<h2>Bangladesh dominate Australia in Australia</h2>Bangladesh are playing their first Test series in Australia since 2003 have utterly dominated the hosts on day 1 of the two-Test series. After bowling out the hosts for 198, Bangladesh were 96/1 by the time play come to a close. Shadman Islam (20) was the only wicket to fall before Tanzid Hasan and Mominul Haque added unbeaten 60 runs for the second wicket to put Bangladesh in the driver seat.

The moment happened in the 21st over when Smith knicked one behind. The visitors appealed but the on-field umpire wasn't convinced. Bangladesh opted for DRS and Smith had already started walking back to the dressing room before a flatline on snicko reprived him.

Australia batter Steve Smith survived a close call on day 1 (Aug 13) of the ongoing first Test against Bangladesh in Darwin which he used to play a lone surviving hand in Australia's otherwise dismal batting performance. Australia were bowled out for 198 in the first innings with Smith scoring 71 as Hasan Mahmud dismantled the hosts with 6/55. Smith, after the day's play, acknowledged that he felt a knick but thanked the DRS for the reprive which he made complete use of, but alas, other Aussie batters could not help him much. Also Read - ‘I couldn’t believe it’: Auqib Nabi opens up on India call-up Was Smith out before DRS turned decision? The moment happened in the 21st over when Smith knicked one behind for Bangladesh keeper Litton Das to complete a simple catch. The visitors appealed but the on-field umpire wasn't convinced. Bangladesh opted for DRS and Smith had already started walking back to the dressing room before a flatline on snicko reprived him.

The moment happened in the 21st over when Smith knicked one behind. The visitors appealed but the on-field umpire wasn't convinced. Bangladesh opted for DRS and Smith had already started walking back to the dressing room before a flatline on snicko reprived him.

AUS vs BAN, 1st Test: Smith agrees he 'certainly felt something' on DRS-Snicko controversy

Bangladesh had a dream start to their Test tour of Australia as they bowled out the hosts for a paltry 198 in the first innings on day 1 (Aug 13) of the first of two Tests. Batting first, Australia were in all sorts of trouble throught the innings in Darwin and Bangladesh pacers made sure to take advantage of that. Hasan Mahmud was the pick of the bowlers, taking 6/55 as Taskin Ahmed and Ebadot Hossain chipped in with a couple wickets each.<h2>How Bangladesh bowlers dismantled Australia?</h2>Australia started well with openers Travis Head (22) and Jake Weatherhald (23) adding 45 runs for the first wicket before Mahmud dismissed the latter in the 12th over. Head followed his fellow opener two overs later before Marnus Labuschagne was dismissed by Hossain after scoring just one run off 20 balls. Cameron Green was also dismissed in the first session as Australia went to lunch at 74/4.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-s-2019-odi-wc-winning-captain-eoin-morgan-to-be-next-csk-coach-ravi-ashwin-has-a-feeling-1786608226656">England's 2019 ODI WC winning captain Eoin Morgan to be next CSK coach? Ravi Ashwin has a 'feeling'</a>In the second session, Alex Carey (19) and Steve Smith (71) added 55 runs as Australia tried to recover before Hossain broke the partnership. Beau Webster was next to go as Australia succumbed to 152/6 before heading to tea at 184/8. Bangladesh made light work of last two wickets and dismissed the hosts for just 198 in the first innings.<h2>Bangladesh batters build on bowlers' success</h2>In their first innings, Bangladesh batted better than Australia, scoring 96/1 before the close of play. Shadman Islam (20) and Tanzid Hasan added 36 runs for the first wicket before Mitchell Starc dismissed Islam. Mominul Haque (35 not out) and Hasan, who remained not at 32, then added 60 runs for the second wicket before the day was ended. Bangladesh now trail by 104 runs in the first innings and would be looking to take huge lead over the hosts to be in the driving position in the match.

Hasan Mahmud was the pick of the bowlers, taking 6/55 as Bangladesh bowled out Australia for 198 in the first innings before scoring 96/1 by the time play was closed on day 1 of the first Test.

Bangladesh had a dream start to their Test tour of Australia as they bowled out the hosts for a paltry 198 in the first innings on day 1 (Aug 13) of the first of two Tests. Batting first, Australia were in all sorts of trouble throught the innings in Darwin and Bangladesh pacers made sure to take advantage of that. Hasan Mahmud was the pick of the bowlers, taking 6/55 as Taskin Ahmed and Ebadot Hossain chipped in with a couple wickets each. How Bangladesh bowlers dismantled Australia? Australia started well with openers Travis Head (22) and Jake Weatherhald (23) adding 45 runs for the first wicket before Mahmud dismissed the latter in the 12th over. Head followed his fellow opener two overs later before Marnus Labuschagne was dismissed by Hossain after scoring just one run off 20 balls. Cameron Green was also dismissed in the first session as Australia went to lunch at 74/4. Also Read - England's 2019 ODI WC winning captain Eoin Morgan to be next CSK coach? Ravi Ashwin has a 'feeling' In the second session, Alex Carey (19) and Steve Smith (71) added 55 runs as Australia tried to recover before Hossain broke the partnership. Beau Webster was next to go as Australia succumbed to 152/6 before heading to tea at 184/8. Bangladesh made light work of last two wickets and dismissed the hosts for just 198 in the first innings. Bangladesh batters build on bowlers' success In their first innings, Bangladesh batted better than Australia, scoring 96/1 before the close of play. Shadman Islam (20) and Tanzid Hasan added 36 runs for the first wicket before Mitchell Starc dismissed Islam. Mominul Haque (35 not out) and Hasan, who remained not at 32, then added 60 runs for the second wicket before the day was ended. Bangladesh now trail by 104 runs in the first innings and would be looking to take huge lead over the hosts to be in the driving position in the match.

Hasan Mahmud was the pick of the bowlers, taking 6/55 as Bangladesh bowled out Australia for 198 in the first innings before scoring 96/1 by the time play was closed on day 1 of the first Test.

BAN vs AUS, 1st Test: Mahmud leads Bangladesh's dominance over Australia on Day 1

Pakistan Cricket has hit a new low by becoming only the second team to lose three consecutive Tests to Bangladesh. The first team and only team to lose three straight Tests to Bangladesh before Pakistan was Zimbabwe - highlighting the struggles of once a fearsome Asian team. Pak's latest loss came on day of the first Test against Bangladesh at Mirpur on Tuesday (May 12) where they lost seven wickets in the final session. Chasing a realisting 268 in 75 overs, Pakistan were 116/3 at tea but lost the plot in the final session and were bowled out for 163, losing by a mammoth 104 runs.<h2>How Pakistan lost plot against Bangladesh</h2>Bangladesh, for the first of second Test against Pakistan, stepped away from the typical spinning pitches and prepared a green wicket. In the first innings, Bangladesh scored 413 and dismissed Pakistan on 386 for a slender 27 run lead. Batting second time, Bangladesh stretched the innigs on day 5 and batted a while before declaring at 240/9 - showing their push for the result.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gujarat-titans-crush-sunrisers-hyderabad-by-82-runs-to-go-on-top-of-ipl-2026-points-table-kagiso-rabada-jason-holder-3-wickets-washington-sundar-1778607940894">Gujarat Titans crush SunRisers Hyderabad to go on top of IPL 2026 points table</a>Chasing 268 in 75 overs on a day when the light was bound to not complete overs, Pakistan lost first wicket in the first over itself as Imam-ul-Haq got out for 2 as Pakistan went to lunch at 6/1. In the second session, Pakistan scored 110 runs for loss of just two wickets and went into tea at 116/3 with Abdullah Fazal at 66 and Salman Agha on 21.The chaos started in the final session which started with Fazal being dimissed in the very first over of the final session. Agha followed suit in the next over and Pakistan became 121/5 from 116/3 in matter of a few balls. Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan, each scored 15 runs and added 31 runs for the fifth wicket before express quick Nahid Rana was unleashed.Rana dismissed four of the final five wickets as Pakistan collapsed from 152/5 to 163 all-out in a manner only Pakistan can collapse.<h2>Skipper Shan Masood reacts to loss</h2>"I think we were in a good position at tea. And then after tea we lost some wickets and in terms of game-sense I thought that's where a few of the batsmen could have really realised that we're a bit far away from the target and it's better to keep ourselves in the game. I thought we lost wickets at the wrong time and we could have made better cricketing decisions," said Pak skipper Masood after the crushing defeat.

Bangladesh pacer Nahid Rana dismissed four of the final five wickets as Pakistan collapsed from 152/5 to 163 all-out in a manner only Pakistan can collapse as lost first Test by 104 runs.

Pakistan Cricket has hit a new low by becoming only the second team to lose three consecutive Tests to Bangladesh. The first team and only team to lose three straight Tests to Bangladesh before Pakistan was Zimbabwe - highlighting the struggles of once a fearsome Asian team. Pak's latest loss came on day of the first Test against Bangladesh at Mirpur on Tuesday (May 12) where they lost seven wickets in the final session. Chasing a realisting 268 in 75 overs, Pakistan were 116/3 at tea but lost the plot in the final session and were bowled out for 163, losing by a mammoth 104 runs. How Pakistan lost plot against Bangladesh Bangladesh, for the first of second Test against Pakistan, stepped away from the typical spinning pitches and prepared a green wicket. In the first innings, Bangladesh scored 413 and dismissed Pakistan on 386 for a slender 27 run lead. Batting second time, Bangladesh stretched the innigs on day 5 and batted a while before declaring at 240/9 - showing their push for the result. Also Read - Gujarat Titans crush SunRisers Hyderabad to go on top of IPL 2026 points table Chasing 268 in 75 overs on a day when the light was bound to not complete overs, Pakistan lost first wicket in the first over itself as Imam-ul-Haq got out for 2 as Pakistan went to lunch at 6/1. In the second session, Pakistan scored 110 runs for loss of just two wickets and went into tea at 116/3 with Abdullah Fazal at 66 and Salman Agha on 21. The chaos started in the final session which started with Fazal being dimissed in the very first over of the final session. Agha followed suit in the next over and Pakistan became 121/5 from 116/3 in matter of a few balls. Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan, each scored 15 runs and added 31 runs for the fifth wicket before express quick Nahid Rana was unleashed. Rana dismissed four of the final five wickets as Pakistan collapsed from 152/5 to 163 all-out in a manner only Pakistan can collapse. Skipper Shan Masood reacts to loss "I think we were in a good position at tea. And then after tea we lost some wickets and in terms of game-sense I thought that's where a few of the batsmen could have really realised that we're a bit far away from the target and it's better to keep ourselves in the game. I thought we lost wickets at the wrong time and we could have made better cricketing decisions," said Pak skipper Masood after the crushing defeat.

Bangladesh pacer Nahid Rana dismissed four of the final five wickets as Pakistan collapsed from 152/5 to 163 all-out in a manner only Pakistan can collapse as lost first Test by 104 runs.

'Pakistan equal Zimbabwe': Pak skipper Shan Masood rues poor 'cricketing decisions' after crushing loss vs Bangladesh

Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) outcast Mustafizur Rahman was on fire on Thursday (April 23) as he helped Bangladesh win the decider against New Zealand in the third ODI. Playing at the Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium in Chattogram, Rahman’s 43/5 helped Bangladesh beat New Zealand by 55 runs to win the decider and therefore the series 2-1. Earlier, Najmul Hossain Shanto also starred with a 105-run knock as Bangladesh recovered from 9/2 to score 265/8 in their 50 overs.<h2>Bangladesh pocket ODI series 2-1</h2>Shanto hit 105 off 119 balls, smacking nine fours and two sixes for his fourth ODI century to lift New Zealand from early trouble to 265/8 after being invited to bat first in Chattogram. Mustafizur, who returned from injury after missing the first two matches, then ripped through the New Zealand batting to help bowl out the opposition for 210 in 44.5 overs.&nbsp;The performance took Mustafizur's tally to six five-wicket hauls in ODI cricket, the most by any Bangladesh bowler and level with Wasim Akram (Pakistan) and Trent Boult (New Zealand) among left-arm quicks. Australia left-armer Mitchell Starc is top of the list on nine.&nbsp;Dean Foxcroft top-scored for New Zealand with a valiant 75 off 72 balls as he hit seven sixes to extend Bangladesh's wait for victory after the tourists slipped to 160/9. Nick Kelly made 59 off 80 at the top of the order. Pace bowler Nahid Rana and spinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz took two wickets each.<h2>What happened in Bangladesh innings?</h2>Earlier, Bangladesh slipped to 32/3 before Shanto and Litton Das steadied the innings with a 160-run stand - the highest partnership for Bangladesh against New Zealand in the 50-overs format for the fourth wicket. Will O'Rourke was chief destroyer with the new ball, removing Saif Hassan and Tanzid Hasan in his opening two overs to leave Bangladesh reeling at 9/2.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-cameron-green-to-liam-livingstone-5-most-expensive-players-in-ipl-2026-auctions-matheesha-pathirana-kartik-sharma-prashant-veer-1774031148132">From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions</a>&nbsp;Soumya Sarkar was dismissed soon after for 18, dragging one back onto his stumps off O'Rourke before Shanto and Litton hit back. Left-arm spinner Jayden Lennox broke the stand by removing Litton for 76 off 91 balls, a knock laced with three fours and one six. It was Litton's 13th ODI half-century.&nbsp;Lennox also brought an end to Shanto's innings, having the left-hander caught by Nathan Smith. Towhid Hridoy contributed an unbeaten 33 and captain Mehidy added 22 to ensure a challenging total. O'Rourke was the pick of the New Zealand bowlers with 32/3 while Ben Lister and Lennox took two wickets each.

Najmul Hossain Shanto hit 105 off 119 balls, smacking nine fours and two sixes for his fourth ODI century to lift New Zealand from early trouble to 265/8 after being invited to bat first in Chattogram. Mustafizur

Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) outcast Mustafizur Rahman was on fire on Thursday (April 23) as he helped Bangladesh win the decider against New Zealand in the third ODI. Playing at the Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium in Chattogram, Rahman’s 43/5 helped Bangladesh beat New Zealand by 55 runs to win the decider and therefore the series 2-1. Earlier, Najmul Hossain Shanto also starred with a 105-run knock as Bangladesh recovered from 9/2 to score 265/8 in their 50 overs. Bangladesh pocket ODI series 2-1 Shanto hit 105 off 119 balls, smacking nine fours and two sixes for his fourth ODI century to lift New Zealand from early trouble to 265/8 after being invited to bat first in Chattogram. Mustafizur, who returned from injury after missing the first two matches, then ripped through the New Zealand batting to help bowl out the opposition for 210 in 44.5 overs. The performance took Mustafizur's tally to six five-wicket hauls in ODI cricket, the most by any Bangladesh bowler and level with Wasim Akram (Pakistan) and Trent Boult (New Zealand) among left-arm quicks. Australia left-armer Mitchell Starc is top of the list on nine. Dean Foxcroft top-scored for New Zealand with a valiant 75 off 72 balls as he hit seven sixes to extend Bangladesh's wait for victory after the tourists slipped to 160/9. Nick Kelly made 59 off 80 at the top of the order. Pace bowler Nahid Rana and spinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz took two wickets each. What happened in Bangladesh innings? Earlier, Bangladesh slipped to 32/3 before Shanto and Litton Das steadied the innings with a 160-run stand - the highest partnership for Bangladesh against New Zealand in the 50-overs format for the fourth wicket. Will O'Rourke was chief destroyer with the new ball, removing Saif Hassan and Tanzid Hasan in his opening two overs to leave Bangladesh reeling at 9/2. ALSO READ | From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions Soumya Sarkar was dismissed soon after for 18, dragging one back onto his stumps off O'Rourke before Shanto and Litton hit back. Left-arm spinner Jayden Lennox broke the stand by removing Litton for 76 off 91 balls, a knock laced with three fours and one six. It was Litton's 13th ODI half-century. Lennox also brought an end to Shanto's innings, having the left-hander caught by Nathan Smith. Towhid Hridoy contributed an unbeaten 33 and captain Mehidy added 22 to ensure a challenging total. O'Rourke was the pick of the New Zealand bowlers with 32/3 while Ben Lister and Lennox took two wickets each.

Najmul Hossain Shanto hit 105 off 119 balls, smacking nine fours and two sixes for his fourth ODI century to lift New Zealand from early trouble to 265/8 after being invited to bat first in Chattogram. Mustafizur

IPL outcast Rahman shines for hosts as Bangladesh beat NZ in decider to pocket ODI series

Bangladesh has found itself in a position of hypocrisy after it recently allowed its shooting team to travel to India, just days after the country’s cricket team refused to tour the same nation, citing safety concerns. This decision ultimately cost Bangladesh a place at the T20 World Cup 2026. The Bangladesh cricket team was dropped from the T20 World Cup, scheduled for India from February 7 to March 8, after the board made it clear that the team would not travel due to security concerns.&nbsp;&nbsp;The International Cricket Council (ICC) rejected Bangladesh’s request to shift their matches to Sri Lanka, stating that independent security reports had cleared India as a safe host and that a late change in schedule was not possible. Bangladesh were replaced by Scotland in the tournament.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/betrayal-or-memory-loss-how-bcci-once-backed-bangladesh-to-gain-test-status-in-2000-1769440768780">Betrayal or memory loss? How BCCI once backed Bangladesh to gain Test status in 2000</a>&nbsp;However, shortly after the ICC’s decision, Bangladesh approved a three-member shooting contingent to compete in the Asian Shooting Championships in New Delhi next month. The squad includes shooter Robiul Islam, his coach Sharmin Akhter and jury member Saima Feroze. The event will be held in the Indian capital from February 2 to 14.&nbsp;The decision has raised questions over the differing standards applied to two national teams travelling to the same country within days of each other. Confirming Bangladesh’s participation, National Rifle Association of India secretary-general Pawan Singh said the process had been underway well in advance.&nbsp;“Bangladesh’s participation was confirmed a month ago. Our applications for clearances for all nations have been in process for almost three months,” Singh was quoted saying to Reuters.&nbsp;Singh added that the Bangladesh contingent did not seek any additional security measures for their stay in India. “The Bangladesh team has come to our tournaments many times, so they know our strict protocols well. Maybe that’s why they are confident and have not made any special requests,” he said.&nbsp;He also highlighted that shooting competitions follow global sporting rules. “We have to follow ISSF norms as a sport and comply with the IOC charter, and as NRAI, we have always received support from the government,” Singh added.&nbsp;The Asian Shooting Confederation, which is organising the championship, has not responded to requests for comment.&nbsp;The contrasting decisions by Bangladesh have labelled the move as double standards, raising serious questions over whether the claimed security threats for the cricket team were real or politically motivated.

Days after refusing to travel to India for the T20 World Cup citing concerns, the Bangladesh shooting team has made a sharp U-turn and is now set to visit India, sparking debate and criticism.

Bangladesh has found itself in a position of hypocrisy after it recently allowed its shooting team to travel to India, just days after the country’s cricket team refused to tour the same nation, citing safety concerns. This decision ultimately cost Bangladesh a place at the T20 World Cup 2026. The Bangladesh cricket team was dropped from the T20 World Cup, scheduled for India from February 7 to March 8, after the board made it clear that the team would not travel due to security concerns. The International Cricket Council (ICC) rejected Bangladesh’s request to shift their matches to Sri Lanka, stating that independent security reports had cleared India as a safe host and that a late change in schedule was not possible. Bangladesh were replaced by Scotland in the tournament. Also read | Betrayal or memory loss? How BCCI once backed Bangladesh to gain Test status in 2000 However, shortly after the ICC’s decision, Bangladesh approved a three-member shooting contingent to compete in the Asian Shooting Championships in New Delhi next month. The squad includes shooter Robiul Islam, his coach Sharmin Akhter and jury member Saima Feroze. The event will be held in the Indian capital from February 2 to 14. The decision has raised questions over the differing standards applied to two national teams travelling to the same country within days of each other. Confirming Bangladesh’s participation, National Rifle Association of India secretary-general Pawan Singh said the process had been underway well in advance. “Bangladesh’s participation was confirmed a month ago. Our applications for clearances for all nations have been in process for almost three months,” Singh was quoted saying to Reuters. Singh added that the Bangladesh contingent did not seek any additional security measures for their stay in India. “The Bangladesh team has come to our tournaments many times, so they know our strict protocols well. Maybe that’s why they are confident and have not made any special requests,” he said. He also highlighted that shooting competitions follow global sporting rules. “We have to follow ISSF norms as a sport and comply with the IOC charter, and as NRAI, we have always received support from the government,” Singh added. The Asian Shooting Confederation, which is organising the championship, has not responded to requests for comment. The contrasting decisions by Bangladesh have labelled the move as double standards, raising serious questions over whether the claimed security threats for the cricket team were real or politically motivated.

Days after refusing to travel to India for the T20 World Cup, citing concerns, the Bangladesh shooting team has made a sharp U-turn and is now set to visit India, sparking debate and criticism.

‘If hypocrisy had a face’: Bangladesh shooting team to visit India days after refusing T20 World Cup travel

A look at the top five fielders with most catches in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup history, highlighting their matches, stunning grabs and catch-per-innings ratios that define consistency and brilliance in big games.


Meet top 5 athletic fielders with most catches in T20 World Cup: No. 4 will shock you

Bangladesh Cricket continues to suffer with each passing day. Since being replaced by lower-ranked Scotland in Group C at the 2026 T20 World Cup for failing to find a middle ground (with ICC) in the venue saga, Bangladesh now have its journalists, over 130, facing accreditation rejections by the apex body. Not only are they not participating in the 20-team tournament in India and Sri Lanka, but hundreds of Bangladeshi journalists are also barred from fulfilling media responsibilities at this event, which begins on February 7.&nbsp;Following replacing Bangladesh at the World Cup, the ICC piled more misery on its fans and now journalists by rejecting between 130 and 150 accreditation applications to cover the tournament.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-keeps-bangladesh-on-standby-as-pakistan-2026-t20-world-cup-future-remains-uncertain-report-1769495744786">ICC keeps Bangladesh on standby as Pakistan’s T20 World Cup future remains uncertain – Report</a> &nbsp;A Daily Star report, also carried out by several Indian outlets, including NDTV, claims that the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s (BCB) media committee chairman, Amzad Hossain, confirmed this development, adding that over 100 Bangladeshi journalists applied for the T20 World Cup’s accreditations, only for the ICC to reject everyone’s. &nbsp;"As far as I know, all Bangladeshi journalists were rejected. Around 130 to 150 journalists applied this year, but none received accreditation," Amzad said. &nbsp;The report also states that several photojournalists received their accreditations around January 20 and 21, but even those have now been revoked. &nbsp;"I received an approval email from the ICC media department on 20 January, which included a visa support letter. But today I received another email saying my application was rejected," the report quoted a journalist, Mir Farid, as saying. &nbsp;While Bangladesh has been part of ICC events since 1999, a few of its journalists have reportedly been covering major tournaments even before that, including the 1996 World Cup in Asia; a Bangladeshi journalist named Arifur Rahman Babu, who was among those who covered that tournament, also had his accreditation (for the 2026 T20 WC) rejected by the ICC. &nbsp;"Even if a team is not playing, journalists from an ICC Associate Member nation can still receive accreditation. I find no reason why everyone was rejected. I am surprised, and I strongly condemn and protest this decision," said Arifur. &nbsp;Moreover, Arifur, who also heads the Bangladesh Sports Journalists Association (BSJA), said he will take up this matter with the Bangladesh Sports Press Association (BSPA) and the Bangladesh Sports Journalists Community (BSJC) before finalising on their next course of action.

Not only are they not participating in the 20-team tournament in India and Sri Lanka, but hundreds of Bangladeshi journalists are also barred from fulfilling media responsibilities at this event, which begins on February 7.

Bangladesh Cricket continues to suffer with each passing day. Since being replaced by lower-ranked Scotland in Group C at the 2026 T20 World Cup for failing to find a middle ground (with ICC) in the venue saga, Bangladesh now have its journalists, over 130, facing accreditation rejections by the apex body. Not only are they not participating in the 20-team tournament in India and Sri Lanka, but hundreds of Bangladeshi journalists are also barred from fulfilling media responsibilities at this event, which begins on February 7. Following replacing Bangladesh at the World Cup, the ICC piled more misery on its fans and now journalists by rejecting between 130 and 150 accreditation applications to cover the tournament. Also read | ICC keeps Bangladesh on standby as Pakistan’s T20 World Cup future remains uncertain – Report A Daily Star report, also carried out by several Indian outlets, including NDTV, claims that the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s (BCB) media committee chairman, Amzad Hossain, confirmed this development, adding that over 100 Bangladeshi journalists applied for the T20 World Cup’s accreditations, only for the ICC to reject everyone’s. "As far as I know, all Bangladeshi journalists were rejected. Around 130 to 150 journalists applied this year, but none received accreditation," Amzad said. The report also states that several photojournalists received their accreditations around January 20 and 21, but even those have now been revoked. "I received an approval email from the ICC media department on 20 January, which included a visa support letter. But today I received another email saying my application was rejected," the report quoted a journalist, Mir Farid, as saying. While Bangladesh has been part of ICC events since 1999, a few of its journalists have reportedly been covering major tournaments even before that, including the 1996 World Cup in Asia; a Bangladeshi journalist named Arifur Rahman Babu, who was among those who covered that tournament, also had his accreditation (for the 2026 T20 WC) rejected by the ICC. "Even if a team is not playing, journalists from an ICC Associate Member nation can still receive accreditation. I find no reason why everyone was rejected. I am surprised, and I strongly condemn and protest this decision," said Arifur. Moreover, Arifur, who also heads the Bangladesh Sports Journalists Association (BSJA), said he will take up this matter with the Bangladesh Sports Press Association (BSPA) and the Bangladesh Sports Journalists Community (BSJC) before finalising on their next course of action.

Not only are they not participating in the 20-team tournament in India and Sri Lanka, but hundreds of Bangladeshi journalists are also barred from fulfilling media responsibilities at this event, which begins on February 7.

Bangladesh journalists won’t cover T20 World Cup as ICC rejects over 130 applications – Report

Rajeev Shukla, the BCCI vice-president, has openly accused Pakistan of provoking Bangladesh against travelling to India for the T20 World Cup on the grounds of security concerns. After the BCCI directed IPL team KKR to release Mustafizur Rahman following regular attacks on the minorities in Bangladesh, the BCB decided against sending its team to India for the first showpiece event of the year, claiming a threat to the touring entourage. As a result, the BCB and the ICC failed to find a middle ground, with Scotland replacing Bangladesh in Group C.&nbsp;Speaking to ANI, Shukla said that the Indian Cricket Board assured tight security to Bangladesh and also addressed their concerns; however, outside interference aggravated the situation, leading to Bangladesh’s exit from the 20-team tournament. &nbsp;“We wanted Bangladesh to play, and we also assured full security, but since they have made this decision, it is very difficult to change the entire schedule at the last moment. This is why Scotland was brought in,” Shukla said to ANI. “Pakistan is intervening in the matter without any reason and provoking Bangladesh. Everyone knows the brutality done by Pakistan on the Bangladeshis, and now they are trying to mislead them, which is completely wrong,” he added. &nbsp;His comments have come amid uncertainty over Pakistan’s participation in the T20 World Cup, with the PCB boss claiming that they will reveal their decision sooner. At a time when everyone awaited PCB’s decision following their squad announcement for the marquee event, Naqvi’s social media post on Monday (Jan 26) hinted at a delay. &nbsp;After meeting Shahbaz Sharif, the Pakistani Prime Minister, Naqvi described it as a ‘productive meeting’, adding that the higher authorities had ‘directed that we resolve it while keeping all options on the table.’ However, Naqvi’s X post read that a final decision would be taken ‘either on Friday or next Monday’.<h3>Bangladesh on standby</h3>Meanwhile, in other news, the <a href="ICC keeps Bangladesh on standby as Pakistan’s T20 World Cup future remains uncertain – Report">ICC has kept Bangladesh on standby</a>, ready to reinstate them (in Group A) as Pakistan’s replacement should the PCB persist in its unreasonable demand (of withdrawing from the T20 World Cup) on the pretext of injustice done to Bangladesh in the first place. &nbsp;“If Pakistan decide to withdraw, Bangladesh would be given the opportunity to replace them in Group A and play all their matches in Sri Lanka as per BCB’s original request. This arrangement would pose limited logistical challenges,” an official close to the information revealed, as quoted by HT. &nbsp;Meanwhile, the 2026 T20 World Cup gets underway on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

After the BCCI directed IPL team KKR to release Mustafizur Rahman following regular attacks on the minorities in Bangladesh, the BCB decided against sending its team to India for the first showpiece event of the year, claiming a threat to the touring entourage. 

Rajeev Shukla, the BCCI vice-president, has openly accused Pakistan of provoking Bangladesh against travelling to India for the T20 World Cup on the grounds of security concerns. After the BCCI directed IPL team KKR to release Mustafizur Rahman following regular attacks on the minorities in Bangladesh, the BCB decided against sending its team to India for the first showpiece event of the year, claiming a threat to the touring entourage. As a result, the BCB and the ICC failed to find a middle ground, with Scotland replacing Bangladesh in Group C. Speaking to ANI, Shukla said that the Indian Cricket Board assured tight security to Bangladesh and also addressed their concerns; however, outside interference aggravated the situation, leading to Bangladesh’s exit from the 20-team tournament. “We wanted Bangladesh to play, and we also assured full security, but since they have made this decision, it is very difficult to change the entire schedule at the last moment. This is why Scotland was brought in,” Shukla said to ANI. “Pakistan is intervening in the matter without any reason and provoking Bangladesh. Everyone knows the brutality done by Pakistan on the Bangladeshis, and now they are trying to mislead them, which is completely wrong,” he added. His comments have come amid uncertainty over Pakistan’s participation in the T20 World Cup, with the PCB boss claiming that they will reveal their decision sooner. At a time when everyone awaited PCB’s decision following their squad announcement for the marquee event, Naqvi’s social media post on Monday (Jan 26) hinted at a delay. After meeting Shahbaz Sharif, the Pakistani Prime Minister, Naqvi described it as a ‘productive meeting’, adding that the higher authorities had ‘directed that we resolve it while keeping all options on the table.’ However, Naqvi’s X post read that a final decision would be taken ‘either on Friday or next Monday’. Bangladesh on standby Meanwhile, in other news, the ICC has kept Bangladesh on standby, ready to reinstate them (in Group A) as Pakistan’s replacement should the PCB persist in its unreasonable demand (of withdrawing from the T20 World Cup) on the pretext of injustice done to Bangladesh in the first place. “If Pakistan decide to withdraw, Bangladesh would be given the opportunity to replace them in Group A and play all their matches in Sri Lanka as per BCB’s original request. This arrangement would pose limited logistical challenges,” an official close to the information revealed, as quoted by HT. Meanwhile, the 2026 T20 World Cup gets underway on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka.

After the BCCI directed IPL team KKR to release Mustafizur Rahman following regular attacks on the minorities in Bangladesh, the BCB decided against sending its team to India for the first showpiece event of the year, claiming a threat to the touring entourage.&nbsp;

‘Brutality by Pakistan’: BCCI VP on why Bangladesh refused to travel to India for T20 World Cup

In what appears to be the biggest 'if' moment in recent cricket history, the ICC has kept Bangladesh on standby as Pakistan considers its participation in the 2026 T20 World Cup. After the ICC replaced Bangladesh with Scotland for failing to find a middle ground over the venue row, Pakistan entered the conversation, threatening to boycott the tournament, citing the pretext of injustice done to the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). Although the PCB seemed to have diluted that thought with the showpiece event just 10 days away, the latest reports suggest that Pakistan was mulling boycotting the India game instead to put their stance forward.&nbsp;Bangladesh asked the ICC to move its matches out of India (to Sri Lanka) over security concerns, and Pakistan, on the other hand, was scheduled to play all its matches in the Island Nation, including the marquee game against its arch-rivals in Colombo.&nbsp; &nbsp;Should Pakistan boycott the tournament, and considering that all Bangladesh wanted was to play their games only in Sri Lanka, this swap fits the criteria (for the ICC), which also cuts on logistical challenges for them.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/betrayal-or-memory-loss-how-bcci-once-backed-bangladesh-to-gain-test-status-in-2000-1769440768780">Betrayal or memory loss? How BCCI once backed Bangladesh to gain Test status in 2000</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi met the country’s Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif on Monday (Jan 26) to take his advice on this situation; while a decision on the team’s T20 WC future was expected sooner, PCB boss’ social media post (on X) cleared that they will announce it by this Friday or next Monday. &nbsp;Now, a Hindustan Times (HT) report suggests that Pakistan might avoid boycotting this 20-team tournament, knowing that the apex body has already kept Bangladesh as the standby, should the need arise. &nbsp;“If Pakistan decide to withdraw, Bangladesh would be given the opportunity to replace them in Group A and play all their matches in Sri Lanka as per BCB’s original request. This arrangement would pose limited logistical challenges,” an official close to the information revealed, as quoted by HT. &nbsp;In such a case, the ICC could avoid (giving an impression of) giving in to BCB’s demands while accepting their security threat and allowing all its matches to be played in Sri Lanka, making it a win-win situation for itself and the BCB.&nbsp; &nbsp;Pakistan, however, could suffer a blow should it persist with its unreasonable demand to boycott this ICC tournament, which would have several serious repercussions anyway. Considering they have no concrete reasons to withdraw from this T20 World Cup besides doing it for Bangladesh, the ICC replacing them with Bangladesh would be a disaster for them. &nbsp;Pakistan announced its T20 World Cup squad a couple of days earlier, recalling star batter Babar Azam. The PCB selectors dropped keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan. &nbsp;

The ICC would likely replace Pakistan with Bangladesh should the PCB decide to boycott the 2026 T20 World Cup.

In what appears to be the biggest 'if' moment in recent cricket history, the ICC has kept Bangladesh on standby as Pakistan considers its participation in the 2026 T20 World Cup. After the ICC replaced Bangladesh with Scotland for failing to find a middle ground over the venue row, Pakistan entered the conversation, threatening to boycott the tournament, citing the pretext of injustice done to the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). Although the PCB seemed to have diluted that thought with the showpiece event just 10 days away, the latest reports suggest that Pakistan was mulling boycotting the India game instead to put their stance forward. Bangladesh asked the ICC to move its matches out of India (to Sri Lanka) over security concerns, and Pakistan, on the other hand, was scheduled to play all its matches in the Island Nation, including the marquee game against its arch-rivals in Colombo. Should Pakistan boycott the tournament, and considering that all Bangladesh wanted was to play their games only in Sri Lanka, this swap fits the criteria (for the ICC), which also cuts on logistical challenges for them. Also read | Betrayal or memory loss? How BCCI once backed Bangladesh to gain Test status in 2000 Meanwhile, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi met the country’s Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif on Monday (Jan 26) to take his advice on this situation; while a decision on the team’s T20 WC future was expected sooner, PCB boss’ social media post (on X) cleared that they will announce it by this Friday or next Monday. Now, a Hindustan Times (HT) report suggests that Pakistan might avoid boycotting this 20-team tournament, knowing that the apex body has already kept Bangladesh as the standby, should the need arise. “If Pakistan decide to withdraw, Bangladesh would be given the opportunity to replace them in Group A and play all their matches in Sri Lanka as per BCB’s original request. This arrangement would pose limited logistical challenges,” an official close to the information revealed, as quoted by HT. In such a case, the ICC could avoid (giving an impression of) giving in to BCB’s demands while accepting their security threat and allowing all its matches to be played in Sri Lanka, making it a win-win situation for itself and the BCB. Pakistan, however, could suffer a blow should it persist with its unreasonable demand to boycott this ICC tournament, which would have several serious repercussions anyway. Considering they have no concrete reasons to withdraw from this T20 World Cup besides doing it for Bangladesh, the ICC replacing them with Bangladesh would be a disaster for them. Pakistan announced its T20 World Cup squad a couple of days earlier, recalling star batter Babar Azam. The PCB selectors dropped keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan.

The ICC would likely replace Pakistan with Bangladesh should the PCB decide to boycott the 2026 T20 World Cup.

ICC keeps Bangladesh on standby as Pakistan’s T20 World Cup future remains uncertain – Report

Bangladesh will not participate in the 2026 T20 World Cup, with the ICC replacing them with Scotland in Group C. Following weeks of drama and rising tensions between the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI), the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), and the apex body (ICC) over the venue row, the Bangladesh government’s decision not to send its team to India due to security concerns led to the inevitable. However, with the first showpiece event of the year starting in less than two weeks, the BCB has accepted ICC’s decision and vows not to take any legal action against it.&nbsp;Speaking to the media following Saturday’s board meeting in Dhaka, Amzad Hossain, the BCB's media committee chairman, claimed that the Bangladesh board acknowledges ICC’s decision and that they will not reach out to any arbitration over this matter.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-update-2026-t20-world-cup-schedule-bangladesh-exit-scotland-pakistan-slated-in-group-a-amid-walkout-claims-1769323436918"> ICC updates T20 World Cup schedule after Bangladesh’s exit; Pakistan slated in Group A amid walkout claims</a>&nbsp;"We have accepted the decision of the ICC board," Amzad said. "Since the ICC has said that we cannot go and play or they cannot shift our games to Sri Lanka, in this case, we cannot go and play in India. Our position remains the same. We are not going to any separate arbitration or anything here."However, what made headlines was the Bangladesh government’s remarks on the Bangladesh team's security in India, which Hossain also echoed, saying, ‘going to play in the World Cup would not be safe’ for the team, its staff, fans and journalists.&nbsp;“We have spoken with the government. The government has said that going to India to play in the World Cup would not be safe for us, for our players, journalists, or anyone accompanying the team,” Hossain said.&nbsp;He added that the BCB also offered several proposals to the ICC, including swapping groups with one of Ireland or Zimbabwe (both in Group B); the ICC denied doing so, citing Sri Lanka’s refusal to have a new team in the group.&nbsp;“We have tried our best. We fully respect the ICC Board, and the Board’s majority decision was that the match cannot be relocated,” Hossain said. “Even after that, we tried in our own way and made requests. Since they will not do it or do not want to, there is nothing more we can do.”&nbsp;Meanwhile, it all unfolded after the BCCI instructed IPL team KKR to release seamer Mustafizur Rahman over recent chaos and regular attacks on the minorities in Bangladesh. Irked with the lack of clarity on this, the BCB retaliated by first suspending all IPL-related activities in India and then by formally writing to the ICC, urging them to move its scheduled league matches from India to Sri Lanka (the tournament’s co-host). The ICC rejected BCB's plea on two occasions, eventually replacing them with Scotland for the T20 World Cup.

With the first showpiece event of the year starting in less than two weeks, the BCB has accepted ICC’s decision and vows not to take any legal action against it.

Bangladesh will not participate in the 2026 T20 World Cup, with the ICC replacing them with Scotland in Group C. Following weeks of drama and rising tensions between the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI), the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), and the apex body (ICC) over the venue row, the Bangladesh government’s decision not to send its team to India due to security concerns led to the inevitable. However, with the first showpiece event of the year starting in less than two weeks, the BCB has accepted ICC’s decision and vows not to take any legal action against it. Speaking to the media following Saturday’s board meeting in Dhaka, Amzad Hossain, the BCB's media committee chairman, claimed that the Bangladesh board acknowledges ICC’s decision and that they will not reach out to any arbitration over this matter. Also read | ICC updates T20 World Cup schedule after Bangladesh’s exit; Pakistan slated in Group A amid walkout claims "We have accepted the decision of the ICC board," Amzad said. "Since the ICC has said that we cannot go and play or they cannot shift our games to Sri Lanka, in this case, we cannot go and play in India. Our position remains the same. We are not going to any separate arbitration or anything here." However, what made headlines was the Bangladesh government’s remarks on the Bangladesh team's security in India, which Hossain also echoed, saying, ‘going to play in the World Cup would not be safe’ for the team, its staff, fans and journalists. “We have spoken with the government. The government has said that going to India to play in the World Cup would not be safe for us, for our players, journalists, or anyone accompanying the team,” Hossain said. He added that the BCB also offered several proposals to the ICC, including swapping groups with one of Ireland or Zimbabwe (both in Group B); the ICC denied doing so, citing Sri Lanka’s refusal to have a new team in the group. “We have tried our best. We fully respect the ICC Board, and the Board’s majority decision was that the match cannot be relocated,” Hossain said. “Even after that, we tried in our own way and made requests. Since they will not do it or do not want to, there is nothing more we can do.” Meanwhile, it all unfolded after the BCCI instructed IPL team KKR to release seamer Mustafizur Rahman over recent chaos and regular attacks on the minorities in Bangladesh. Irked with the lack of clarity on this, the BCB retaliated by first suspending all IPL-related activities in India and then by formally writing to the ICC, urging them to move its scheduled league matches from India to Sri Lanka (the tournament’s co-host). The ICC rejected BCB's plea on two occasions, eventually replacing them with Scotland for the T20 World Cup.

With the first showpiece event of the year starting in less than two weeks, the BCB has accepted ICC’s decision and vows not to take any legal action against it.

‘Going to India to play World Cup would not be safe for us,’ Bangladesh govt to BCB amid tournament snub

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has released the updated 2026 T20 World Cup schedule following Bangladesh’s exit due to a venue change row. Replacing Bangladesh with Scotland, the next highest-ranked non-qualified team, the ICC placed the newly inducted side in Group C, which already has two former winners, the West Indies and England, as well as the tournament’s debutants, Italy and Nepal. While Scotland comes in place of Bangladesh in Group C, the updated schedule also sees Pakistan, placed in Group A, retain their spot amid talks of PCB pulling out of the showpiece event in solidarity with the Bangladesh Cricket Board.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The updated fixtures list for the Men’s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> 2026 📋 More details ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/M61nOzx2fF">https://t.co/M61nOzx2fF</a> <a href="https://t.co/deynITDuV3">pic.twitter.com/deynITDuV3</a>&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/2015067068899676212?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

After the ICC officially announced its decision to remove Bangladesh from the upcoming 20-team tournament, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), led by Mohsin Naqvi, also Pakistan’s interior minister, threatened to pull its cricket team out of the multi-team event, adding that the Pakistani government would decide its team’s tournament fate.<h3>What happened between Bangladesh and India? &nbsp;</h3>Ahead of this marquee event, the BCCI directed IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release seamer Mustafizur Rahman over political unrest, chaos and regular killings of minorities in Bangladesh. Irked over the lack of clarity and unreasonable explanation behind BCCI’s call, the BCB acted swiftly, holding back-to-back meetings with its board members.&nbsp; &nbsp;Soon after, they retaliated by first suspending all IPL-related telecasts in Bangladesh and later formally writing to the ICC, asking them to move their scheduled league matches to Sri Lanka (the tournament’s co-host alongside India) due to security concerns in India. &nbsp;The ICC addressed the matter and, upon getting the threat levels (in India) rechecked by itself and an independent security agency, reassured Bangladesh of no threats to any of their players, staff, fans or even journalists travelling to India for the showpiece event of the year; thus, denying BCB’s request. &nbsp;The Bangladesh Cricket Board, however, chased them again, offering different proposals, including swapping its Group (B) with Ireland or Zimbabwe, only to face flat rejection from the apex body. The ICC, following the second meeting with the BCB officials, gave them the deadline to choose between travelling to India or being ready to be replaced. &nbsp;After the BCB declared its decision against travelling to India, the ICC communicated its decision to Bangladesh and Scotland.&nbsp; &nbsp;"The decision follows an extensive process undertaken by the ICC to address concerns raised by the BCB regarding the hosting of its scheduled matches in India," ICC's statement read. "Over a period of more than three weeks, the ICC engaged with the BCB through multiple rounds of dialogue conducted in a transparent and constructive manner, including meetings held both via video conference and in-person. &nbsp;"As part of this process, the ICC reviewed the concerns cited by the BCB, commissioned and considered independent security assessments from internal and external experts, and shared detailed security and operational plans covering federal and state arrangements, as well as enhanced and escalating security protocols for the event. These assurances were reiterated at several stages, including during discussions involving the ICC Business Corporation (IBC) Board. &nbsp;"The ICC’s assessments concluded that there was no credible or verifiable security threat to the Bangladesh national team, officials or supporters in India. &nbsp;"In light of these findings, and after careful consideration of the broader implications, the ICC determined that it was not appropriate to amend the published event schedule,” it read. &nbsp;Meanwhile, the 20-team tournament gets underway in less than two weeks in India and Sri Lanka.

The PCB chief threatened to pull Pakistan out of the T20 World Cup in solidarity with the Bangladesh Cricket Board. 

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has released the updated 2026 T20 World Cup schedule following Bangladesh’s exit due to a venue change row. Replacing Bangladesh with Scotland, the next highest-ranked non-qualified team, the ICC placed the newly inducted side in Group C, which already has two former winners, the West Indies and England, as well as the tournament’s debutants, Italy and Nepal. While Scotland comes in place of Bangladesh in Group C, the updated schedule also sees Pakistan, placed in Group A, retain their spot amid talks of PCB pulling out of the showpiece event in solidarity with the Bangladesh Cricket Board.

The PCB chief threatened to pull Pakistan out of the T20 World Cup in solidarity with the Bangladesh Cricket Board.&nbsp;

ICC updates T20 World Cup schedule after Bangladesh’s exit; Pakistan slated in Group A amid walkout claims

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

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

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

Bangladesh Cricket crisis deepens as BCB has sacked director M Nazmul Islam on Thursday (Jan 15), relieving him of all duties (also as the chairman of the finance committee) amid demands from the cricketers, who boycotted BPL 2026’s game number 26, scheduled the same day. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), in a press release, announced the decision to sack Nazmul over his controversial public remarks against his country’s cricketers. This shocking call came on the back of the abandoned match between Chattogram Royals and Noakhali Express at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur.&nbsp;"Following a review of recent developments and in the best interest of the organisation, the BCB president has decided to release Nazmul Islam from his responsibilities as chairman of the finance committee with immediate effect," a media release by BCB reads.&nbsp;"The BCB reiterates that the interests of the cricketers remain its highest priority. The Board remains fully committed to upholding the honour and dignity of all players under its jurisdiction," it further read.&nbsp;Meanwhile, <a href="Have Bangladesh players threatened a total boycott? Here's what we know so far">the players threatened to boycott all cricket in the country unless the cricket board sacked its director, Nazmul</a>.<h3>What exactly happened?</h3>The backlash began after Nazmul, while reiterating Bangladesh’s stance against travelling to India for the next month’s T20 World Cup, rejected concerns around the player remuneration should Bangladesh decide to withdraw from the 20-team tournament.&nbsp;&nbsp;In an earlier statement, Nazmul said that should that happen, the Bangladesh Cricket Board would be unaffected (with this decision), but the players would, who shall not be compensated, as they haven't justified the board’s support over the same so far.&nbsp;"There will be no loss for the Bangladesh Cricket Board [if we don't take part in the World Cup] as the loss will be for the players," Nazmul said, as quoted by Cricbuzz.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Up to 2027, our revenue will not be hampered because in the 2022 ICC financial meeting, this was already fixed. Future World Cups or future bilateral or international events may have relevance, for example, whether teams will come to us under the FTP. Those are valid questions. But this World Cup does not affect that,” he continued.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Why [should we compensate?] If they go somewhere and cannot do anything, then the crores of Taka we spend behind them, do we ask for that money back from them? Do we? Answer me," he said, adding that the players would find it difficult to survive without the cricket board.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the BCB remains firm (on its stance) against travelling to India for the first showpiece event of the year over its players’ safety. It all started after the BCCI directed IPL team KKR to release Mustafizur Rahman following ‘recent developments’ across the border, including internal chaos and regular attacks on the minorities in the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;Irked by BCCI’s decision and lack of a reasonable explanation on the same, the BCB held back-to-back meetings, taking bold steps, including suspending all IPL-related broadcasts in the country from the coming season onwards. They did not stop there, as the Board then formally wrote to the apex body against their will to send its players to India for the T20 WC, to which the ICC rejected their first plea.

The BCB remains firm (on its stance) against travelling to India for the first showpiece event of the year, over its players’ safety.

Bangladesh Cricket crisis deepens as BCB has sacked director M Nazmul Islam on Thursday (Jan 15), relieving him of all duties (also as the chairman of the finance committee) amid demands from the cricketers, who boycotted BPL 2026’s game number 26, scheduled the same day. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), in a press release, announced the decision to sack Nazmul over his controversial public remarks against his country’s cricketers. This shocking call came on the back of the abandoned match between Chattogram Royals and Noakhali Express at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur. "Following a review of recent developments and in the best interest of the organisation, the BCB president has decided to release Nazmul Islam from his responsibilities as chairman of the finance committee with immediate effect," a media release by BCB reads. "The BCB reiterates that the interests of the cricketers remain its highest priority. The Board remains fully committed to upholding the honour and dignity of all players under its jurisdiction," it further read. Meanwhile, the players threatened to boycott all cricket in the country unless the cricket board sacked its director, Nazmul. What exactly happened? The backlash began after Nazmul, while reiterating Bangladesh’s stance against travelling to India for the next month’s T20 World Cup, rejected concerns around the player remuneration should Bangladesh decide to withdraw from the 20-team tournament. In an earlier statement, Nazmul said that should that happen, the Bangladesh Cricket Board would be unaffected (with this decision), but the players would, who shall not be compensated, as they haven't justified the board’s support over the same so far. "There will be no loss for the Bangladesh Cricket Board [if we don't take part in the World Cup] as the loss will be for the players," Nazmul said, as quoted by Cricbuzz. "Up to 2027, our revenue will not be hampered because in the 2022 ICC financial meeting, this was already fixed. Future World Cups or future bilateral or international events may have relevance, for example, whether teams will come to us under the FTP. Those are valid questions. But this World Cup does not affect that,” he continued. "Why [should we compensate?] If they go somewhere and cannot do anything, then the crores of Taka we spend behind them, do we ask for that money back from them? Do we? Answer me," he said, adding that the players would find it difficult to survive without the cricket board. Meanwhile, the BCB remains firm (on its stance) against travelling to India for the first showpiece event of the year over its players’ safety. It all started after the BCCI directed IPL team KKR to release Mustafizur Rahman following ‘recent developments’ across the border, including internal chaos and regular attacks on the minorities in the country. Irked by BCCI’s decision and lack of a reasonable explanation on the same, the BCB held back-to-back meetings, taking bold steps, including suspending all IPL-related broadcasts in the country from the coming season onwards. They did not stop there, as the Board then formally wrote to the apex body against their will to send its players to India for the T20 WC, to which the ICC rejected their first plea.

The BCB remains firm (on its stance) against travelling to India for the first showpiece event of the year over its players’ safety.

BCB sacks director Nazmul Islam after Bangladesh players boycott BPL match

Bangladesh umpire Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid Saikat was one of the two on-field umpires in the India vs New Zealand first ODI on Sunday (Jan 11) in Vadodara. The news made rounds as Bangladesh are currently demanding to move their 2026 T20 World Cup matches outside India. The reason cited by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) behind their demand is 'player safety.' The matter is still is with ICC which, accoding to BCB, has promised to pay attention to the concerns.<h2>BCB official on Bangladesh umpire in India vs New Zealand series</h2>Speaking to Cricbuzz, BCB's umpire department chairman Iftekhar Rahman said: "He (Saikat) is an ICC-contracted umpire, and we are stating clearly that he is not contracted with us (BCB). Our contract stipualtes that whenever he has an ICC assignment, he is automatically on leave from his duties with us. I don't need to issue any NOC. The contract states that if he has any ICC engagement, he must be automatically released. I have no authority to decide whether to grant permission or not."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wpl-2026-gg-s-sophie-devine-hits-32-runs-in-one-over-off-sneh-rana-scores-highest-powerplay-score-1768219063804">WPL 2026: Devine hits 32 runs in one over, scores highest powerplay score</a><h2>What is the whole drama behind Bangladesh's request?</h2>The BCB, on Sunday (Jan 3), requested ICC to move its group stage matches outside India citing 'players' safety and well-being.' 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).he whole issue started after IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders released Bangladesh bowler Mustafizur Rahman from the squad with the reason not being shared publicly. Rahman was picked up by KKR at the IPL 2026 auction held in December for INR 9.2 crore. He was only Bangladesh player to be bought at the auction. In response, BCB banned the broadcast of the IPL in Bangladesh indefinelty as well.

The news made rounds as Bangladesh are currently demanding to move their 2026 T20 World Cup matches outside India. The reason cited by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) behind their demand is 'player safety.' 

Bangladesh umpire Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid Saikat was one of the two on-field umpires in the India vs New Zealand first ODI on Sunday (Jan 11) in Vadodara. The news made rounds as Bangladesh are currently demanding to move their 2026 T20 World Cup matches outside India. The reason cited by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) behind their demand is 'player safety.' The matter is still is with ICC which, accoding to BCB, has promised to pay attention to the concerns. BCB official on Bangladesh umpire in India vs New Zealand series Speaking to Cricbuzz, BCB's umpire department chairman Iftekhar Rahman said: "He (Saikat) is an ICC-contracted umpire, and we are stating clearly that he is not contracted with us (BCB). Our contract stipualtes that whenever he has an ICC assignment, he is automatically on leave from his duties with us. I don't need to issue any NOC. The contract states that if he has any ICC engagement, he must be automatically released. I have no authority to decide whether to grant permission or not." Also Read - WPL 2026: Devine hits 32 runs in one over, scores highest powerplay score What is the whole drama behind Bangladesh's request? The BCB, on Sunday (Jan 3), requested ICC to move its group stage matches outside India citing 'players' safety and well-being.' 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). he whole issue started after IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders released Bangladesh bowler Mustafizur Rahman from the squad with the reason not being shared publicly. Rahman was picked up by KKR at the IPL 2026 auction held in December for INR 9.2 crore. He was only Bangladesh player to be bought at the auction. In response, BCB banned the broadcast of the IPL in Bangladesh indefinelty as well.

The news made rounds as Bangladesh are currently demanding to move their 2026 T20 World Cup matches outside India. The reason cited by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) behind their demand is 'player safety.'&nbsp;

BCB offical says Bangladesh umpire in India vs NZ Vadodara ODI 'not contracted with us'

In a strange yet surprising development in the 2026 T20 World Cup venue row, Pakistan has offered to host Bangladesh’s matches. Pakistan, which is not even co-hosting this 20-team tournament, with India and Sri Lanka sharing staging rights, is reported to have formally informed the apex body – the ICC, about its willingness to host all Bangladesh’s T20 WC games amid growing tensions between the two countries over internal chaos and attack on the minorities in Bangladesh.&nbsp;A Times of India (TOI) report, which further credits Pakistani news outlet Geo News, claims that PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has approached the ICC over Pakistan's willingness to host Bangladesh’s league and knockout matches, should they advance, after the BCB denied travelling to India for the showpiece event, citing security concerns.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hasaranga-shines-with-four-for-as-sri-lanka-edge-out-pakistan-in-rain-hit-3rd-t20i-level-series-1768190783943">Hasaranga shines with four-for as Sri Lanka edge out Pakistan in rain-hit 3rd T20I, level series</a> &nbsp;The BCB is awaiting the ICC’s decision, having already faced rejection on the same matter earlier. Bangladesh officially wrote to the apex body asking them to move their T20 World Cup matches out of India (to Sri Lanka), with the ICC throwing that concern out of the window, saying they have no substantial evidence of any possible threat to the travelling Bangladeshi side. &nbsp;Meanwhile, it all began after the Indian Cricket Board directed the IPL franchise, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), to release the only Bangladeshi player picked in the December player auction – seamer Mustafizur Rahman, following what they mentioned as ‘recent developments’ across the border in their official statement. The lack of clearance behind his release caused chaos among the BCB and Bangladeshi cricket fans back home, with their cricket board holding emergency meetings over the past weekend. &nbsp;The BCB, irked over BCCI’s decision, decided against broadcasting the upcoming season of the cash-rich league, suspending all IPL-related telecasts in the country. They then formally wrote to the ICC, seeking a venue change at next month’s T20 World Cup. &nbsp;Placed in Group C, Bangladesh is scheduled to play their four league matches across two different venues (three in Kolkata and one in Mumbai), starting February 7.&nbsp; &nbsp;In their official letter to the ICC, Bangladesh requested that their games be played in Sri Lanka for the safety and well-being of their players. During their online chat with the ICC last Tuesday, the apex body denied any such requests, commenting that either they play the World Cup in India or be ready to forfeit their points.&nbsp; &nbsp;Unsatisfied with ICC’s decision, the BCB made another effort to convince them to change their venues at the T20 WC, while also standing their stance of not willing to travel to India as of now.&nbsp;

Bangladesh is clear in its stance of not travelling to India for next month's T20 World Cup, citing concerns over their players' security.

In a strange yet surprising development in the 2026 T20 World Cup venue row, Pakistan has offered to host Bangladesh’s matches. Pakistan, which is not even co-hosting this 20-team tournament, with India and Sri Lanka sharing staging rights, is reported to have formally informed the apex body – the ICC, about its willingness to host all Bangladesh’s T20 WC games amid growing tensions between the two countries over internal chaos and attack on the minorities in Bangladesh. A Times of India (TOI) report, which further credits Pakistani news outlet Geo News, claims that PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has approached the ICC over Pakistan's willingness to host Bangladesh’s league and knockout matches, should they advance, after the BCB denied travelling to India for the showpiece event, citing security concerns. Also read | Hasaranga shines with four-for as Sri Lanka edge out Pakistan in rain-hit 3rd T20I, level series The BCB is awaiting the ICC’s decision, having already faced rejection on the same matter earlier. Bangladesh officially wrote to the apex body asking them to move their T20 World Cup matches out of India (to Sri Lanka), with the ICC throwing that concern out of the window, saying they have no substantial evidence of any possible threat to the travelling Bangladeshi side. Meanwhile, it all began after the Indian Cricket Board directed the IPL franchise, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), to release the only Bangladeshi player picked in the December player auction – seamer Mustafizur Rahman, following what they mentioned as ‘recent developments’ across the border in their official statement. The lack of clearance behind his release caused chaos among the BCB and Bangladeshi cricket fans back home, with their cricket board holding emergency meetings over the past weekend. The BCB, irked over BCCI’s decision, decided against broadcasting the upcoming season of the cash-rich league, suspending all IPL-related telecasts in the country. They then formally wrote to the ICC, seeking a venue change at next month’s T20 World Cup. Placed in Group C, Bangladesh is scheduled to play their four league matches across two different venues (three in Kolkata and one in Mumbai), starting February 7. In their official letter to the ICC, Bangladesh requested that their games be played in Sri Lanka for the safety and well-being of their players. During their online chat with the ICC last Tuesday, the apex body denied any such requests, commenting that either they play the World Cup in India or be ready to forfeit their points. Unsatisfied with ICC’s decision, the BCB made another effort to convince them to change their venues at the T20 WC, while also standing their stance of not willing to travel to India as of now.

Bangladesh is clear in its stance of not travelling to India for next month's T20 World Cup, citing concerns over their players' security.

Pakistan offer to host Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup matches amid growing tensions with India – Report

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

Bangladesh cricket was left in shock on Saturday (Dec 27), as Mahbub Ali Zaki, assistant coach of Dhaka Capitals, passed away at the age of 59. The veteran coach suffered a sudden heart attack during pre-match warm-ups at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium ahead of the BPL clash against Rajshahi Warriors. Despite immediate CPR and being rushed to Al Haramain Hospital, Zaki was pronounced dead on arrival. Players, coaches, and match officials observed a minute’s silence before the game as a mark of respect.&nbsp;Zaki’s sudden passing is a huge loss to Bangladesh cricket, where he was widely regarded not only for his expertise but also for his dedication to nurturing young fast bowlers. He had been an integral part of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) for over 17 years, shaping the pace attack of the national team and helping emerging talents achieve their potential.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/six-hitter-of-2025-pakistan-s-farhan-stands-fifth-guess-who-takes-the-top-spot-1766834604093">Six-hitter of 2025: Pakistan’s Farhan stands fifth, guess who takes the top spot?</a><h2>Man Behind Taskin Ahmed’s Comeback</h2>Before his coaching career, Mahbub Ali Zaki was a right-arm fast bowler who represented Comilla District in the National Cricket Championship and played for major Dhaka Premier Division clubs, including Abahani Limited and Dhanmondi. His playing days laid the foundation for a deep understanding of pace bowling, which he carried into coaching.&nbsp;Joining the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) in 2008 as a high-performance coach, Zaki later became a ‘Specialist Pace Bowling Coach’ in the Game Development Department. He gained national recognition for his work with Taskin Ahmed during the 2016 T20 World Cup, when Taskin’s bowling action was reported as illegal. Zaki worked closely with Taskin to remodel his action, enabling the young pacer to return to international cricket successfully.<h2>Vision for Pace Academy</h2>Known for his discipline, work ethic, and approachable nature, Zaki had long-term plans to establish a dedicated fast-bowling academy in Bangladesh, inspired by India’s MRF Pace Foundation. His commitment to developing fast-bowling talent and his impact on players’ careers made him one of the most respected figures in Bangladeshi cricket.

Mahbub Ali Zaki, Bangladesh’s respected fast-bowling coach, passed away suddenly during BPL 2025. Known for mentoring Taskin Ahmed, he spent more than 17 years shaping the nation’s pace bowling talent.

Bangladesh cricket was left in shock on Saturday (Dec 27), as Mahbub Ali Zaki, assistant coach of Dhaka Capitals, passed away at the age of 59. The veteran coach suffered a sudden heart attack during pre-match warm-ups at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium ahead of the BPL clash against Rajshahi Warriors. Despite immediate CPR and being rushed to Al Haramain Hospital, Zaki was pronounced dead on arrival. Players, coaches, and match officials observed a minute’s silence before the game as a mark of respect. Zaki’s sudden passing is a huge loss to Bangladesh cricket, where he was widely regarded not only for his expertise but also for his dedication to nurturing young fast bowlers. He had been an integral part of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) for over 17 years, shaping the pace attack of the national team and helping emerging talents achieve their potential. Also read | Six-hitter of 2025: Pakistan’s Farhan stands fifth, guess who takes the top spot? Man Behind Taskin Ahmed’s Comeback Before his coaching career, Mahbub Ali Zaki was a right-arm fast bowler who represented Comilla District in the National Cricket Championship and played for major Dhaka Premier Division clubs, including Abahani Limited and Dhanmondi. His playing days laid the foundation for a deep understanding of pace bowling, which he carried into coaching. Joining the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) in 2008 as a high-performance coach, Zaki later became a ‘Specialist Pace Bowling Coach’ in the Game Development Department. He gained national recognition for his work with Taskin Ahmed during the 2016 T20 World Cup, when Taskin’s bowling action was reported as illegal. Zaki worked closely with Taskin to remodel his action, enabling the young pacer to return to international cricket successfully. Vision for Pace Academy Known for his discipline, work ethic, and approachable nature, Zaki had long-term plans to establish a dedicated fast-bowling academy in Bangladesh, inspired by India’s MRF Pace Foundation. His commitment to developing fast-bowling talent and his impact on players’ careers made him one of the most respected figures in Bangladeshi cricket.

Mahbub Ali Zaki, Bangladesh’s respected fast-bowling coach, passed away suddenly during BPL 2025. Known for mentoring Taskin Ahmed, he spent more than 17 years shaping the nation’s pace bowling talent.

Who was Mahbub Ali Zaki? The man behind Taskin Ahmed’s comeback in international cricket

Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib al Hasan, in a shocking admission, has agreed to chucking intentionally during a county championship match in England. The incident had happened in September last year during Surrey’s first-class match against Somerset in Taunton. Shakib was reported for suspected illegal action by the umpires and an independent assessment at Loughborough University in December last year, he was banned from bowling in England Cricket Board (ECB) competition. The all-rounder, who had bowled 65 overs in the match, in a recent chat on Bread Before Wicket podcast, revealed he was tired and chucked intentionally.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2025-26-mccullum-says-england-over-prepared-after-brisbane-test-loss-1765178072484">Ashes: McCullum says England 'over prepared' after Brisbane Test loss</a>“I think I was doing it a little bit intentionally because I bowled more than 70 overs in one match,” Shakib said on the podcast. “I have never bowled 70 overs in a Test match in my career. I was playing that four-day match for Surrey against Somerset at Taunton and I was completely exhausted.“I had just played back-to-back Test matches in Pakistan, which we won, and then went straight into those four-day matches. The only thing I felt the umpire could have done was at least warn me first. But it is in the rules, so they had the right. I did not complain,” he added.<h2>Shakib wants a proper good bye series</h2>The all-rounder had called time on his T20I career last year while announcing that the Dhaka Test against South Africa in 2024 would be his last. Shakib, however, was not picked for the series and his last Test remains the Kanpur context against India, also in 2024. He now has decided to reverse his decision to retire from Tests and T20Is. While Shakib may have revealed his intentions, it looks uncertain at this point of time that he'll be allowed to come back to the country in the aftermath of the protest which overthrew Sheikh Hasina's government.

Shakib was reported for suspected illegal action by the umpires and an independent assessment at Loughborough University in December last year, he was banned from bowling in England Cricket Board (ECB) competition.

Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib al Hasan, in a shocking admission, has agreed to chucking intentionally during a county championship match in England. The incident had happened in September last year during Surrey’s first-class match against Somerset in Taunton. Shakib was reported for suspected illegal action by the umpires and an independent assessment at Loughborough University in December last year, he was banned from bowling in England Cricket Board (ECB) competition. The all-rounder, who had bowled 65 overs in the match, in a recent chat on Bread Before Wicket podcast, revealed he was tired and chucked intentionally. Also Read - Ashes: McCullum says England 'over prepared' after Brisbane Test loss “I think I was doing it a little bit intentionally because I bowled more than 70 overs in one match,” Shakib said on the podcast. “I have never bowled 70 overs in a Test match in my career. I was playing that four-day match for Surrey against Somerset at Taunton and I was completely exhausted. “I had just played back-to-back Test matches in Pakistan, which we won, and then went straight into those four-day matches. The only thing I felt the umpire could have done was at least warn me first. But it is in the rules, so they had the right. I did not complain,” he added. Shakib wants a proper good bye series The all-rounder had called time on his T20I career last year while announcing that the Dhaka Test against South Africa in 2024 would be his last. Shakib, however, was not picked for the series and his last Test remains the Kanpur context against India, also in 2024. He now has decided to reverse his decision to retire from Tests and T20Is. While Shakib may have revealed his intentions, it looks uncertain at this point of time that he'll be allowed to come back to the country in the aftermath of the protest which overthrew Sheikh Hasina's government.

Shakib was reported for suspected illegal action by the umpires and an independent assessment at Loughborough University in December last year, he was banned from bowling in England Cricket Board (ECB) competition.

Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib admits to chucking intentionally

Former Bangladesh skipper Shakib al Hasan has decided to reverse his decision to retire from Tests and T20Is. The all-rounder had called time on his T20I career last year while announcing that the Dhaka Test against South Africa in 2024 would be his last. Shakib, however, was not picked for the series and his last Test remains the Kanpur context against India, also in 2024. The veteran all-rounder has not returned to the country since Sheikh Hasina's government was over-thrown in a widespread student-led protest in 2024. Shakib, notably, was a Member of Parliament (MP) of Hasina's Awami League party."I am officially not retired from all formats," Shakib said on the Beard Before Wicket podcast on Sunday (Dec 7). "This is the first time I'll be revealing that. My plan is to go back to Bangladesh, play one full series of ODI, Test, and T20, and retire," he added.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2025-26-mccullum-says-england-over-prepared-after-brisbane-test-loss-1765178072484">Ashes: McCullum says England 'over prepared' after Brisbane Test loss</a>While Shakib may have revealed his intentions, it looks uncertain at this point of time that he'll be allowed to come back to the country in the aftermath of the protest during which he was criticised for remaining silent. Shakib was also named in a FIR in an alleged murder case but he was not in the country at the time.Speaking on his return to Bangladesh, Shakib said: "I am hopeful. That's why I'm playing [T20 leagues]. I think it will happen."<h2>Shakib in international cricket</h2>The all-rounder is one of the most successful players ever to represent Bangladesh. He has played 71 Test, 247 ODIs, and 129 T20Is, scoring 4609, 7570, and 2,551 runs, respectively. He also has taken 246, 317, and 149 wickets in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is, respectively and is considered one of the most premium all-rounders in world cricket.

While Shakib may have revealed his intentions, it looks uncertain at this point of time that he'll be allowed to come back to the country in the aftermath of the protest during which he was criticised for remaining silent.

Former Bangladesh skipper Shakib al Hasan has decided to reverse his decision to retire from Tests and T20Is. The all-rounder had called time on his T20I career last year while announcing that the Dhaka Test against South Africa in 2024 would be his last. Shakib, however, was not picked for the series and his last Test remains the Kanpur context against India, also in 2024. The veteran all-rounder has not returned to the country since Sheikh Hasina's government was over-thrown in a widespread student-led protest in 2024. Shakib, notably, was a Member of Parliament (MP) of Hasina's Awami League party. "I am officially not retired from all formats," Shakib said on the Beard Before Wicket podcast on Sunday (Dec 7). "This is the first time I'll be revealing that. My plan is to go back to Bangladesh, play one full series of ODI, Test, and T20, and retire," he added. Also Read - Ashes: McCullum says England 'over prepared' after Brisbane Test loss While Shakib may have revealed his intentions, it looks uncertain at this point of time that he'll be allowed to come back to the country in the aftermath of the protest during which he was criticised for remaining silent. Shakib was also named in a FIR in an alleged murder case but he was not in the country at the time. Speaking on his return to Bangladesh, Shakib said: "I am hopeful. That's why I'm playing [T20 leagues]. I think it will happen." Shakib in international cricket The all-rounder is one of the most successful players ever to represent Bangladesh. He has played 71 Test, 247 ODIs, and 129 T20Is, scoring 4609, 7570, and 2,551 runs, respectively. He also has taken 246, 317, and 149 wickets in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is, respectively and is considered one of the most premium all-rounders in world cricket.

While Shakib may have revealed his intentions, it looks uncertain at this point of time that he'll be allowed to come back to the country in the aftermath of the protest during which he was criticised for remaining silent.

Shakib reverses Test and T20I retirement and plans to 'go back to Bangladesh'

Mushfiqur Rahim became the first Bangladesh cricketer to reach the 100-Test mark on Wednesday (Nov 19). With this milestone, let’s take a look at the five players who have played the most Test matches for Bangladesh.

5 players with most Tests for Bangladesh: Mushfiqur Rahim leads the chart, check the full list