Pakistan’s participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 remains uncertain as the final call is now set to be taken by the country’s top leadership. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi recently held a crucial meeting with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to discuss the issue, signalling that the matter has moved beyond cricket administration. The 2022 edition runners-up have been placed in Group A alongside India, the USA, the Netherlands and Namibia, with all their group matches scheduled to be played in Sri Lanka under the hybrid model. Earlier, reports suggested that Pakistan had even threatened to boycott the tournament in solidarity with the Bangladesh Cricket Board after Bangladesh refused to travel to India, citing security concerns.&nbsp;Mohsin Naqvi shared the update through his official X handle after the meeting, writing, “Had a productive meeting with the Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif. Briefed him on the ICC matter, and he directed that we resolve it while keeping all options on the table. It was agreed that the final decision will be taken either on Friday or next Monday.”&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-was-is-bindra-remembering-the-former-bcci-chief-who-passed-away-last-night-1769426556797">Who was IS Bindra? Remembering the former BCCI chief who passed away last night</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mohsin Naqvi

The development comes shortly after the International Cricket Council (ICC) decided to replace Bangladesh with Scotland. Bangladesh had pulled out due to security concerns over travelling to India, a move that created fresh controversy and uncertainty around the competition. The ICC’s firm stance reportedly caused unease within the PCB, which had publicly backed Bangladesh during the dispute.&nbsp;&nbsp;Uncertainty over Pakistan’s participation intensified on Saturday (Jan 24) when Naqvi confirmed that the final decision would be made by the federal government. This made it clear that the issue is no longer limited to cricket administration and now involves diplomatic and political considerations.&nbsp;&nbsp;The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is set to begin on 7 February, with Pakistan originally scheduled to start their campaign against the Netherlands. They are then due to face the USA on 10 February, followed by the high-voltage match against India on 15 February. Pakistan will conclude their group stage against Namibia on 18 February.&nbsp;As per the current plan, all of Pakistan’s group matches will be played in Sri Lanka under the hybrid model. If Pakistan qualify for the semi-finals and the final, both matches are scheduled to take place in Colombo. Otherwise, the knockout fixtures will be held in Kolkata and Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2026 participation hangs in the balance after PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi met PM Shehbaz Sharif. Final decision is expected on Friday or next Monday amid boycott talks.

Pakistan’s participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 remains uncertain as the final call is now set to be taken by the country’s top leadership. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi recently held a crucial meeting with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to discuss the issue, signalling that the matter has moved beyond cricket administration. The 2022 edition runners-up have been placed in Group A alongside India, the USA, the Netherlands and Namibia, with all their group matches scheduled to be played in Sri Lanka under the hybrid model. Earlier, reports suggested that Pakistan had even threatened to boycott the tournament in solidarity with the Bangladesh Cricket Board after Bangladesh refused to travel to India, citing security concerns. Mohsin Naqvi shared the update through his official X handle after the meeting, writing, “Had a productive meeting with the Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif. Briefed him on the ICC matter, and he directed that we resolve it while keeping all options on the table. It was agreed that the final decision will be taken either on Friday or next Monday.” Also read | Who was IS Bindra? Remembering the former BCCI chief who passed away last night

Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2026 participation hangs in the balance after PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi met PM Shehbaz Sharif. Final decision is expected on Friday or next Monday amid boycott talks.

Pakistan does a U-turn: Team's decision to participate in T20 WC expected soon

Five Indian batters rule the T20 World Cup six-hitting charts with power and consistency, smashing over 150 massive sixes combined and showing how India has always dominated the game with fearless and match-winning batting.


Meet 5 Indian batters with most sixes in T20 World Cup

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Sunday (Jan 25) named their 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to be held in India and Sri Lanka from Feb 7 to March 8. The selection signals a clear shift in Pakistan’s T20 plans, with fast bowler Haris Rauf and wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan left out of the squad. The team was announced at a press conference in Lahore, attended by PCB Director of High Performance and national selector Aqib Javed, white-ball head coach Mike Hesson and T20 captain Salman Ali Agha.&nbsp;A major talking point is the inclusion of several players who will play their first senior World Cup. Faheem Ashraf, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Sahibzada Farhan and Usman Tariq have all earned maiden call-ups for an ICC tournament.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcb-director-resigns-following-bangladesh-s-controversial-t20-world-cup-2026-snub-1769317590598">BCB director resigns following Bangladesh’s controversial T20 World Cup 26 snub</a>&nbsp;Babar Azam, the highest run-scorer in men’s T20 Internationals, returns to secure his place in the team. Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub and Usman Khan are expected to strengthen the top order. All-rounders Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz and Faheem Ashraf will play key roles with both bat and ball. Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah will lead the pace attack, while Abrar Ahmed is the only specialist spinner in the team.&nbsp;&nbsp;Under the ICC’s “Fusion Formula,” Pakistan will play all their matches in Sri Lanka and will not travel to India during the tournament. If Pakistan qualifies for the semi-finals or final, then there knockout matches will be held in Colombo. Otherwise, the knockout games will take place in Kolkata and Ahmedabad.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-3rd-t20i-when-and-where-to-watch-india-vs-new-zealand-match-live-streaming-in-india-1769319465690">IND vs NZ, 3rd T20I: When and where to watch match live streaming in India?</a>&nbsp;Pakistan is placed in Group A along with India, the Netherlands, the USA and Namibia. They will start their campaign against the Netherlands on Feb 7 in Colombo, then face the USA on Feb 10, India on Feb 15 and Namibia on Feb 18.<h2>Pakistan squad for T20 World Cup 2026</h2>Salman Ali Agha (Captain), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay (WK), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (wk), Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan and Usman Tariq

Pakistan is placed in Group A along with India, the Netherlands, the USA and Namibia. They will start their campaign against the Netherlands on Feb 7 in Colombo, then face the USA on Feb 10, India on Feb 15, and Namibia on Feb 18.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Sunday (Jan 25) named their 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to be held in India and Sri Lanka from Feb 7 to March 8. The selection signals a clear shift in Pakistan’s T20 plans, with fast bowler Haris Rauf and wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan left out of the squad. The team was announced at a press conference in Lahore, attended by PCB Director of High Performance and national selector Aqib Javed, white-ball head coach Mike Hesson and T20 captain Salman Ali Agha. A major talking point is the inclusion of several players who will play their first senior World Cup. Faheem Ashraf, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Sahibzada Farhan and Usman Tariq have all earned maiden call-ups for an ICC tournament. Also Read - BCB director resigns following Bangladesh’s controversial T20 World Cup 26 snub Babar Azam, the highest run-scorer in men’s T20 Internationals, returns to secure his place in the team. Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub and Usman Khan are expected to strengthen the top order. All-rounders Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz and Faheem Ashraf will play key roles with both bat and ball. Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah will lead the pace attack, while Abrar Ahmed is the only specialist spinner in the team. Under the ICC’s “Fusion Formula,” Pakistan will play all their matches in Sri Lanka and will not travel to India during the tournament. If Pakistan qualifies for the semi-finals or final, then there knockout matches will be held in Colombo. Otherwise, the knockout games will take place in Kolkata and Ahmedabad. Also Read - IND vs NZ, 3rd T20I: When and where to watch match live streaming in India? Pakistan is placed in Group A along with India, the Netherlands, the USA and Namibia. They will start their campaign against the Netherlands on Feb 7 in Colombo, then face the USA on Feb 10, India on Feb 15 and Namibia on Feb 18. Pakistan squad for T20 World Cup 2026 Salman Ali Agha (Captain), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay (WK), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (wk), Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan and Usman Tariq

Pakistan is placed in Group A along with India, the Netherlands, the USA and Namibia. They will start their campaign against the Netherlands on Feb 7 in Colombo, then face the USA on Feb 10, India on Feb 15 and Namibia on Feb 18.

T20 World Cup 2026: Pakistan announce squad, Babar returns; Rizwan, Rauf miss out

This story shows the five Scottish batters who have scored the most runs in T20 World Cup history, along with their matches played and strike rates, highlighting their impact on the team’s batting over the years.

Meet top 5 Scottish batters with most runs in T20 World Cup

Pakistan’s participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup hangs in the balance after Mohsin Naqvi, Federal Minister for Interior Affairs, is set to meet Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The latest development comes just hours after Bangladesh were officially ruled out of the T20 World Cup, having refused to travel to India. Unlike Bangladesh, Pakistan are not scheduled to play in India and will play in Sri Lanka even if they qualify for the semifinal and the final of the T20 World Cup.<h2>Pakistan’s T20 World Cup participation in doubt</h2>"Our stance (on World Cup participation) will be what the government of Pakistan instructs me. The Prime Minister is not in Pakistan right now. When he returns, I'll be able to give you our final decision. It's the government's decision. We obey them, not the ICC,” Naqvi said to Geo News as quoted by Espncricinfo.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had earlier claimed that it would pull out of the T20 World Cup if Bangladesh decided not to tour India. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) remained firm on its stand and was officially replaced by Scotland on Saturday. However, just hours later, it’s the PCB now threatening to boycott the T20 World Cup, which starts on Feb 7 in India and will be unofficially co-hosted by Sri Lanka.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;At an ICC meeting last week, the PCB was understood to be the only board to back the BCB in their stance. The tournament is jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka, but Bangladesh's games were all scheduled in India. Bangladesh, however, has said it is no longer safe for them to play in India after the BCCI, on January 3, instructed Kolkata Knight Riders to release Mustafizur Rahman from their IPL 2026 squad.&nbsp;Earlier, ICC had warned Pakistan against pulling out of T20 World Cup 2026. So it will be interesting to see what stance Pakistan takes.&nbsp;

Unlike Bangladesh, Pakistan are not scheduled to play in India and will play in Sri Lanka even if they qualify for the semifinal and the final of the T20 World Cup.

Pakistan’s participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup hangs in the balance after Mohsin Naqvi, Federal Minister for Interior Affairs, is set to meet Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The latest development comes just hours after Bangladesh were officially ruled out of the T20 World Cup, having refused to travel to India. Unlike Bangladesh, Pakistan are not scheduled to play in India and will play in Sri Lanka even if they qualify for the semifinal and the final of the T20 World Cup. Pakistan’s T20 World Cup participation in doubt "Our stance (on World Cup participation) will be what the government of Pakistan instructs me. The Prime Minister is not in Pakistan right now. When he returns, I'll be able to give you our final decision. It's the government's decision. We obey them, not the ICC,” Naqvi said to Geo News as quoted by Espncricinfo. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had earlier claimed that it would pull out of the T20 World Cup if Bangladesh decided not to tour India. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) remained firm on its stand and was officially replaced by Scotland on Saturday. However, just hours later, it’s the PCB now threatening to boycott the T20 World Cup, which starts on Feb 7 in India and will be unofficially co-hosted by Sri Lanka. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds At an ICC meeting last week, the PCB was understood to be the only board to back the BCB in their stance. The tournament is jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka, but Bangladesh's games were all scheduled in India. Bangladesh, however, has said it is no longer safe for them to play in India after the BCCI, on January 3, instructed Kolkata Knight Riders to release Mustafizur Rahman from their IPL 2026 squad. Earlier, ICC had warned Pakistan against pulling out of T20 World Cup 2026. So it will be interesting to see what stance Pakistan takes.

Unlike Bangladesh, Pakistan are not scheduled to play in India and will play in Sri Lanka even if they qualify for the semifinal and the final of the T20 World Cup.

Pakistan's T20 World Cup participation hangs in balance, Mohsin Naqvi to meet PM Shehbaz Sharif

In the T20 World Cup, batters often win matches with explosive innings, but bowlers dominate the tournament, taking crucial wickets and controlling the game to shape team victories.

Meet top 5 pacers with most wickets in T20 World Cup

Scotland were given a wildcard entry into the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 on Saturday (Jan 24) after Bangladesh were kicked out of the tournament for their refusal to travel to India. Scotland, the highest-ranked non-qualified team in the T20 World Cup, replaced Bangladesh after their board refused to travel to India as the European side now joins a 20-team contingent. Left with less than two weeks to prepare for the T20 World Cup, here’s all you need to know about Scotland and their fixtures.<h2>Scotland replaces Bangladesh</h2>"An e-mail was sent last evening to the Bangladesh Cricket Board chairman, intimating him that his board did not get back to the ICC officially after the 24-hour deadline that was given to them to decide if they wanted to come to India, so a decision has been taken," an ICC source was reportedly quoted as saying to PTI on condition of anonymity.&nbsp;The news was later confirmed by prominent cricket websites like Espncricinfo and Cricbuzz, while an official announcement was awaited from ICC at the time of writing. The decision means Scotland will directly swap with Bangladesh, with no changes expected to the schedule of other teams.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a><h2>All you need to know about Scotland’s fixtures</h2>The swap means Scotland will now be placed in Group C in the preliminary stage of the competition and will play West Indies (February 7), Italy (February 9) and England (February 14) in Kolkata, before travelling to Mumbai to take on Nepal on February 17.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;If Scotland qualify for the Super 8 stages, they will replace either England or the West Indies, depending on their performance. If Scotland win Group C, they could face Sri Lanka, Pakistan and New Zealand (if respective teams qualify for the Super 8 stage). If Scotland finish runners-up in Group C, they will face Australia, South Africa and India.&nbsp;Scotland squad for 2026 T20 World Cup: Yet to be announced

Scotland will directly swap with Bangladesh, with no changes expected to the schedule of other teams during the 2026 T20 World Cup. 

Scotland were given a wildcard entry into the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 on Saturday (Jan 24) after Bangladesh were kicked out of the tournament for their refusal to travel to India. Scotland, the highest-ranked non-qualified team in the T20 World Cup, replaced Bangladesh after their board refused to travel to India as the European side now joins a 20-team contingent. Left with less than two weeks to prepare for the T20 World Cup, here’s all you need to know about Scotland and their fixtures. Scotland replaces Bangladesh "An e-mail was sent last evening to the Bangladesh Cricket Board chairman, intimating him that his board did not get back to the ICC officially after the 24-hour deadline that was given to them to decide if they wanted to come to India, so a decision has been taken," an ICC source was reportedly quoted as saying to PTI on condition of anonymity. The news was later confirmed by prominent cricket websites like Espncricinfo and Cricbuzz, while an official announcement was awaited from ICC at the time of writing. The decision means Scotland will directly swap with Bangladesh, with no changes expected to the schedule of other teams. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli All you need to know about Scotland’s fixtures The swap means Scotland will now be placed in Group C in the preliminary stage of the competition and will play West Indies (February 7), Italy (February 9) and England (February 14) in Kolkata, before travelling to Mumbai to take on Nepal on February 17. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds If Scotland qualify for the Super 8 stages, they will replace either England or the West Indies, depending on their performance. If Scotland win Group C, they could face Sri Lanka, Pakistan and New Zealand (if respective teams qualify for the Super 8 stage). If Scotland finish runners-up in Group C, they will face Australia, South Africa and India. Scotland squad for 2026 T20 World Cup: Yet to be announced

Scotland will directly swap with Bangladesh, with no changes expected to the schedule of other teams during the 2026 T20 World Cup.&nbsp;

T20 World Cup 2026: Here's all you need to know about Scotland's schedule, teams, fixtures and more

Bangladesh have taken their T20 World Cup 2026 venue dispute with the ICC to the next level by seeking help from the ICC’s independent dispute resolution committee, in a last attempt to get their matches shifted out of India. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has once again written to the International Cricket Council (ICC), asking for the intervention of the ICC’s independent dispute resolution committee in their ongoing venue row. BCB wants this committee to look into their demand of shifting their T20 World Cup 2026 matches from India to Sri Lanka.&nbsp;According to a report by The Times of India, the latest letter was sent just hours after Bangladesh’s sports advisor Asif Nazrul made their position very clear. He stated that the team would not travel to India even if it meant missing the T20 World Cup. The report added that this firm's stance has pushed BCB to try every possible option to keep their World Cup hopes alive.&nbsp;Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-hit-by-fresh-injury-blow-as-nathan-ellis-ruled-out-of-bbl-finals-ahead-of-t20-world-cup-1769168312884"> Australia hit by fresh injury blow as Nathan Ellis ruled out of BBL finals ahead of T20 World Cup</a>&nbsp;The ICC, however, has already rejected Bangladesh’s request. Board members have voted strongly in favour of replacing Bangladesh with another team if they refuse to play in India. The global body has also said that it has found no security threat for the Bangladeshi team in India.<h2>What is the dispute resolution committee of ICC?</h2>The dispute resolution committee is an independent body within the ICC system. It is meant to settle disputes related to international cricket when internal talks fail. Member boards, players, officials and other parties can approach this committee. Its main job is to look into the lawfulness and interpretation of ICC decisions, rules and contracts. It is not a forum for normal appeals.&nbsp;As per The Times of India, the committee is based in London and works under English law. Its decisions are final and binding, with almost no scope for appeal. This makes it a powerful platform, and that is why BCB is now pinning its hopes on it.&nbsp;The ICC, however, has made its stand very clear. In an official statement, the ICC said shifting Bangladesh’s matches “would carry significant logistical and scheduling consequences for other teams and fans worldwide, and would also create precedent-related challenges that risk undermining the neutrality, fairness and integrity of ICC governance.” &nbsp;With the tournament starting from February 7, time is running out for Bangladesh. Their move to approach the dispute resolution committee now looks like a final attempt to force a change.&nbsp;

Bangladesh have approached the ICC’s dispute resolution committee over the T20 World Cup venue row, hoping to move matches from India as the ICC stays firm and the deadline for decisions draws closer.


Bangladesh have taken their T20 World Cup 2026 venue dispute with the ICC to the next level by seeking help from the ICC’s independent dispute resolution committee, in a last attempt to get their matches shifted out of India. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has once again written to the International Cricket Council (ICC), asking for the intervention of the ICC’s independent dispute resolution committee in their ongoing venue row. BCB wants this committee to look into their demand of shifting their T20 World Cup 2026 matches from India to Sri Lanka. According to a report by The Times of India, the latest letter was sent just hours after Bangladesh’s sports advisor Asif Nazrul made their position very clear. He stated that the team would not travel to India even if it meant missing the T20 World Cup. The report added that this firm's stance has pushed BCB to try every possible option to keep their World Cup hopes alive. Also read | Australia hit by fresh injury blow as Nathan Ellis ruled out of BBL finals ahead of T20 World Cup The ICC, however, has already rejected Bangladesh’s request. Board members have voted strongly in favour of replacing Bangladesh with another team if they refuse to play in India. The global body has also said that it has found no security threat for the Bangladeshi team in India. What is the dispute resolution committee of ICC? The dispute resolution committee is an independent body within the ICC system. It is meant to settle disputes related to international cricket when internal talks fail. Member boards, players, officials and other parties can approach this committee. Its main job is to look into the lawfulness and interpretation of ICC decisions, rules and contracts. It is not a forum for normal appeals. As per The Times of India, the committee is based in London and works under English law. Its decisions are final and binding, with almost no scope for appeal. This makes it a powerful platform, and that is why BCB is now pinning its hopes on it. The ICC, however, has made its stand very clear. In an official statement, the ICC said shifting Bangladesh’s matches “would carry significant logistical and scheduling consequences for other teams and fans worldwide, and would also create precedent-related challenges that risk undermining the neutrality, fairness and integrity of ICC governance.” With the tournament starting from February 7, time is running out for Bangladesh. Their move to approach the dispute resolution committee now looks like a final attempt to force a change.

Bangladesh have approached the ICC’s dispute resolution committee over the T20 World Cup venue row, hoping to move matches from India as the ICC stays firm and the deadline for decisions draws closer.

Explained: ICC dispute resolution committee and Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup venue fight

Australia’s T20 World Cup preparation has suffered another major setback with fast bowler Nathan Ellis ruled out of the Big Bash League finals due to a hamstring injury, adding to the growing list of fitness worries in their pace attack. The timing could not be worse, both for the Hurricanes and for Australia, with the global tournament just weeks away.&nbsp;Ellis was set to lead Hobart in the Challenger match against Sydney Sixers at the SCG, with the winner earning a place in the final against Perth Scorchers at Optus Stadium. His absence is a huge blow for the defending champions, especially because he has been their captain and leading wicket-taker this season. Losing their most reliable bowler at such a crucial stage weakens their title defence.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-top-5-batters-fastest-to-21-000-international-runs-1769165649624">Meet top 5 batters fastest to 21,000 international runs</a>&nbsp;Cricket Australia confirmed that Ellis remains a part of Australia’s T20 World Cup squad and is expected to recover in time. However, his injury is being closely watched, given how important he is to Australia’s pace plans. Ellis was already rested from the upcoming T20I series against Pakistan as part of workload management, which now makes this setback even more concerning.&nbsp;Ellis’ injury adds to a growing list of fitness problems in the Australian camp. Captain Pat Cummins, who recently returned during the Ashes after a long injury break, may miss the first two or three group-stage matches of the World Cup. Australia’s chief selector George Bailey said his availability will depend on the results of a back scan scheduled later this month.&nbsp;Josh Hazlewood and Tim David are also racing against time. Hazlewood missed the entire Ashes series, while David picked up a hamstring injury during the BBL. Both players were left out of the T20I squad against Pakistan but are expected to recover before the World Cup begins.&nbsp;As per ICC rules, teams can make changes to their squads until January 31. This gives Australia some room to adjust if players fail to regain full fitness. Despite the concerns, Bailey remained positive, saying that Cummins, Hazlewood and David are “tracking in the right direction” and are still central to Australia’s plans.<h2>Australia’s T20 World Cup squad&nbsp;</h2>Mitchell Marsh (c), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Pat Cummins, Tim David, Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Marcus Stoinis and Adam Zampa.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Australia face fresh T20 World Cup worries as Nathan Ellis is ruled out of BBL finals with a hamstring injury, adding to fitness concerns around Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Tim David for Australia


Australia’s T20 World Cup preparation has suffered another major setback with fast bowler Nathan Ellis ruled out of the Big Bash League finals due to a hamstring injury, adding to the growing list of fitness worries in their pace attack. The timing could not be worse, both for the Hurricanes and for Australia, with the global tournament just weeks away. Ellis was set to lead Hobart in the Challenger match against Sydney Sixers at the SCG, with the winner earning a place in the final against Perth Scorchers at Optus Stadium. His absence is a huge blow for the defending champions, especially because he has been their captain and leading wicket-taker this season. Losing their most reliable bowler at such a crucial stage weakens their title defence. Also read | Meet top 5 batters fastest to 21,000 international runs Cricket Australia confirmed that Ellis remains a part of Australia’s T20 World Cup squad and is expected to recover in time. However, his injury is being closely watched, given how important he is to Australia’s pace plans. Ellis was already rested from the upcoming T20I series against Pakistan as part of workload management, which now makes this setback even more concerning. Ellis’ injury adds to a growing list of fitness problems in the Australian camp. Captain Pat Cummins, who recently returned during the Ashes after a long injury break, may miss the first two or three group-stage matches of the World Cup. Australia’s chief selector George Bailey said his availability will depend on the results of a back scan scheduled later this month. Josh Hazlewood and Tim David are also racing against time. Hazlewood missed the entire Ashes series, while David picked up a hamstring injury during the BBL. Both players were left out of the T20I squad against Pakistan but are expected to recover before the World Cup begins. As per ICC rules, teams can make changes to their squads until January 31. This gives Australia some room to adjust if players fail to regain full fitness. Despite the concerns, Bailey remained positive, saying that Cummins, Hazlewood and David are “tracking in the right direction” and are still central to Australia’s plans. Australia’s T20 World Cup squad Mitchell Marsh (c), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Pat Cummins, Tim David, Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Marcus Stoinis and Adam Zampa.

Australia face fresh T20 World Cup worries as Nathan Ellis is ruled out of BBL finals with a hamstring injury, adding to fitness concerns around Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Tim David for Australia

Australia hit by fresh injury blow as Nathan Ellis ruled out of BBL finals ahead of T20 World Cup

New Zealand star pacer Adam Milne has been ruled out of the upcoming T20 World Cup due to a hamstring injury, with the team naming 31-year-old Kyle Jamieson as his replacement, New Zealand Cricket confirmed on Friday (Jan 23).Milne sustained the injury while bowling for Sunrisers Eastern Cape during an SA20 match and scans later showed that the injury was serious, ruling him out of the tournament. Jamieson, who is already with the New Zealand squad on their white-ball tour of India, has now been added to the World Cup squad. He was earlier named as a travelling reserve for the tournament in India and Sri Lanka.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-will-place-strong-and-competitive-bid-in-coming-months-adar-poonawalla-confirms-interest-in-rcb-ownership-1769137907012">‘Will place strong bid in coming months’: Adar Poonawalla confirms interest in RCB ownership</a>&nbsp;Head coach Rob Walter said that the team was gutted for Milne, who had put in a lot of work to be ready for the World Cup and was performing well in the SA20.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We are all gutted for Adam. He had worked so hard to get himself ready for the tournament and was looking back to his best in his eight matches for the Eastern Cape Sunrisers," coach Rob Walter was quoted as saying in the statement.&nbsp;He further wished Milne a quick recovery and said it was a big plus that Jamieson was already with the squad in India.&nbsp;The coach also added that a new travelling reserve for the World Cup will be announced later.&nbsp;“It is unfortunate timing for Adam and we wish him a speedy recovery. It is great that Kyle is already with us here in India. He is an integral member of our pace-bowling group and has hit the ground running on this tour," Walter added.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-2nd-t20i-when-and-where-to-watch-india-vs-new-zealand-match-live-streaming-in-india-1769136526719">IND vs NZ, 2nd T20I: When and where to watch match live streaming in India?</a>&nbsp;New Zealand will play one warm-up match against the USA on Feb 6 in Mumbai. They begin their World Cup campaign against Afghanistan on Feb 8 in Chennai. They will then face the UAE at the same venue on Feb 10 before moving to Ahmedabad to play South Africa on Feb 15.&nbsp;Their final group match is against Canada on Feb 17 in Chennai. New Zealand will be hoping to do better this time after finishing third in Group C in 2024 and failing to move past the league stage.<h2>New Zealand's squad for T20 World Cup 2026</h2>Mitchell Santner (c), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi and Kyle Jamieson

The Black Caps will begin their World Cup campaign against Afghanistan on Feb 8 in Chennai. They will then face the UAE at the same venue on Feb 10, before moving to Ahmedabad to take on South Africa on Feb 15.

New Zealand star pacer Adam Milne has been ruled out of the upcoming T20 World Cup due to a hamstring injury, with the team naming 31-year-old Kyle Jamieson as his replacement, New Zealand Cricket confirmed on Friday (Jan 23). Milne sustained the injury while bowling for Sunrisers Eastern Cape during an SA20 match and scans later showed that the injury was serious, ruling him out of the tournament. Jamieson, who is already with the New Zealand squad on their white-ball tour of India, has now been added to the World Cup squad. He was earlier named as a travelling reserve for the tournament in India and Sri Lanka. Also Read - ‘Will place strong bid in coming months’: Adar Poonawalla confirms interest in RCB ownership Head coach Rob Walter said that the team was gutted for Milne, who had put in a lot of work to be ready for the World Cup and was performing well in the SA20. “We are all gutted for Adam. He had worked so hard to get himself ready for the tournament and was looking back to his best in his eight matches for the Eastern Cape Sunrisers," coach Rob Walter was quoted as saying in the statement. He further wished Milne a quick recovery and said it was a big plus that Jamieson was already with the squad in India. The coach also added that a new travelling reserve for the World Cup will be announced later. “It is unfortunate timing for Adam and we wish him a speedy recovery. It is great that Kyle is already with us here in India. He is an integral member of our pace-bowling group and has hit the ground running on this tour," Walter added. Also Read - IND vs NZ, 2nd T20I: When and where to watch match live streaming in India? New Zealand will play one warm-up match against the USA on Feb 6 in Mumbai. They begin their World Cup campaign against Afghanistan on Feb 8 in Chennai. They will then face the UAE at the same venue on Feb 10 before moving to Ahmedabad to play South Africa on Feb 15. Their final group match is against Canada on Feb 17 in Chennai. New Zealand will be hoping to do better this time after finishing third in Group C in 2024 and failing to move past the league stage. New Zealand's squad for T20 World Cup 2026 Mitchell Santner (c), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi and Kyle Jamieson

The Black Caps will begin their World Cup campaign against Afghanistan on Feb 8 in Chennai. They will then face the UAE at the same venue on Feb 10, before moving to Ahmedabad to take on South Africa on Feb 15.

T20 World Cup 2026: Major blow for Black Caps as star pacer ruled out, replacement named

Bangladesh pulled out of the T20 World Cup 2026 after the International Cricket Council sent a strong directive that they would not be entertaining BCB's request to move their matches from India to Sri Lanka. So here is a look at the timeline of events that led to the current situation.

In Pics: Timeline of events leading to BCB pulling out of T20 World Cup 2026

South Africa cricket team on Thursday (Jan 22) made two changes to their T20 World Cup squad as Tony de Zorzi and Donovan Ferreira were ruled out due to injury. South Africa, runners-up in the 2024 T20 World Cup, have now roped in Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs as replacement for the injured duo. South Africa will begin their T20 World Cup against Canada on Monday (Feb 9) as they are placed in Group D.&nbsp;<h2>South Africa rope in replacements</h2>De Zorzi has not progressed as expected in his rehabilitation from a right hamstring muscle tear sustained during the ODI series against India last month and will not be fit in time for the upcoming T20I series. As a result of his unavailability for the series and the need for continued rehabilitation, he will miss the upcoming marquee tournament in India and Sri Lanka. Ferreira, meanwhile, sustained a fracture of his left clavicle during a domestic T20 game in South Africa earlier this month.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;In addition, David Miller suffered an adductor muscle injury on Monday while playing in South Africa's domestic T20 competition and will play no part in the T20I series. Cricket South Africa have confirmed that his availability for the T20 World Cup is subject to the outcome of a fitness test.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;South Africa are placed in Group D of the T20 World Cup, where they will start their campaign against Canada at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. They will then face Afghanistan at the same venue on Feb 11. The Proteas then take on 2021 T20 World Cup runners-up New Zealand on Feb 14, while their group stage campaign comes to an end at the Arun Jaitley Stadium against the UAE on Feb 18.<h2>South Africa's updated T20 World Cup squad</h2>Aiden Markram (c), Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Quinton de Kock, Marco Jansen, George Linde, Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Jason Smith and Tristan Stubbs.

South Africa, runners-up in the 2024 T20 World Cup, have now roped in Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs as replacement for the injured duo. South Africa will begin their T20 World Cup against Canada on Monday (Feb 9) as they are placed in Group D. 

South Africa cricket team on Thursday (Jan 22) made two changes to their T20 World Cup squad as Tony de Zorzi and Donovan Ferreira were ruled out due to injury. South Africa, runners-up in the 2024 T20 World Cup, have now roped in Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs as replacement for the injured duo. South Africa will begin their T20 World Cup against Canada on Monday (Feb 9) as they are placed in Group D. South Africa rope in replacements De Zorzi has not progressed as expected in his rehabilitation from a right hamstring muscle tear sustained during the ODI series against India last month and will not be fit in time for the upcoming T20I series. As a result of his unavailability for the series and the need for continued rehabilitation, he will miss the upcoming marquee tournament in India and Sri Lanka. Ferreira, meanwhile, sustained a fracture of his left clavicle during a domestic T20 game in South Africa earlier this month. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli In addition, David Miller suffered an adductor muscle injury on Monday while playing in South Africa's domestic T20 competition and will play no part in the T20I series. Cricket South Africa have confirmed that his availability for the T20 World Cup is subject to the outcome of a fitness test. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds South Africa are placed in Group D of the T20 World Cup, where they will start their campaign against Canada at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. They will then face Afghanistan at the same venue on Feb 11. The Proteas then take on 2021 T20 World Cup runners-up New Zealand on Feb 14, while their group stage campaign comes to an end at the Arun Jaitley Stadium against the UAE on Feb 18. South Africa's updated T20 World Cup squad Aiden Markram (c), Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Quinton de Kock, Marco Jansen, George Linde, Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Jason Smith and Tristan Stubbs.

South Africa, runners-up in the 2024 T20 World Cup, have now roped in Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs as replacement for the injured duo. South Africa will begin their T20 World Cup against Canada on Monday (Feb 9) as they are placed in Group D.&nbsp;

De Zorzi, Ferreira ruled out of South Africa's T20 World Cup squad; Rickelton, Stubbs roped in

Bangladesh, after remaining <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bangladesh-not-coming-to-india-bcb-defying-icc-ultimatum-firm-on-playing-t20-wc-2026-in-sri-lanka-1769080961169">firm on their stance to not travel to India</a> for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026, has accused the International Cricket Council (ICC) of playing favorites. Bangladesh announced on Thursday (Jan 22) that they won't be travelling to India for the ICC event after the apex body gave them a day's chance to change the stand. ICC's decision, including not changing the finalised schedule, came after a meeting with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) on Wednesday (Jan 21). Bangladesh are scheduled to play their first three group matches in Kolkata on February 7 (vs WI), February 9 (vs Italy) and February 14 (vs England) before the final match in Mumbai on February 17 (vs Nepal).<h2>What is Bangladesh saying about coming to India?</h2>Bangladesh's national sports advisor Aminul Islam, while speaking to media after a meeting with country's cricketers and BCB officials, said: "The ICC tried to tell us about incidents in 1996 and 2003 but we pointed out their recent steps in a similar matter. When a country refused to travel to another country for the Champions Trophy last February, the ICC organised a neutral venue for them. The team played all their Champions Trophy matches in that neutral venue. They played in one ground, staying in one hotel. It was a privilege."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/snubbed-from-t20-wc-shubman-gill-fails-on-ranji-trophy-return-with-two-ball-duck-1769080398999">Snubbed from T20 WC, Gill fails on Ranji Trophy return with two-ball duck</a><h2>What does Bangladesh want?</h2>While the Asian country has remained steadfast on travelling to India, it has sent the ball back in the ICC's court and has remained opened to play in Sri Lanka - co-host of the tournament along with India. The ICC, however, has made it clear that it is not feasilble for them to change the schedule now and if Bangladesh does not come to India, another country, most probably Scotland, will replace it at the event.<h2>Why Bangladesh does not want to come to India?</h2>The whole matter started when Bangladesh bowler Mustafizur Rahman was released from Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad of IPL 2026. He was bought by the team for INR 9.2 crore at the IPL 2026 auction and was the only player to be bought at the auction from the country. Immediatley after, Bangladesh stopped the broadcast of the league in the country for idefinite period and asked the ICC to move the venues of its matches from India to Sri Lanka.

While the Asian country has remained steadfast on travelling to India, it has sent the ball back in the ICC's court and has remained opened to play in Sri Lanka - co-host of the tournament along with India.

Bangladesh, after remaining firm on their stance to not travel to India for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026, has accused the International Cricket Council (ICC) of playing favorites. Bangladesh announced on Thursday (Jan 22) that they won't be travelling to India for the ICC event after the apex body gave them a day's chance to change the stand. ICC's decision, including not changing the finalised schedule, came after a meeting with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) on Wednesday (Jan 21). Bangladesh are scheduled to play their first three group matches in Kolkata on February 7 (vs WI), February 9 (vs Italy) and February 14 (vs England) before the final match in Mumbai on February 17 (vs Nepal). What is Bangladesh saying about coming to India? Bangladesh's national sports advisor Aminul Islam, while speaking to media after a meeting with country's cricketers and BCB officials, said: "The ICC tried to tell us about incidents in 1996 and 2003 but we pointed out their recent steps in a similar matter. When a country refused to travel to another country for the Champions Trophy last February, the ICC organised a neutral venue for them. The team played all their Champions Trophy matches in that neutral venue. They played in one ground, staying in one hotel. It was a privilege." Also Read - Snubbed from T20 WC, Gill fails on Ranji Trophy return with two-ball duck What does Bangladesh want? While the Asian country has remained steadfast on travelling to India, it has sent the ball back in the ICC's court and has remained opened to play in Sri Lanka - co-host of the tournament along with India. The ICC, however, has made it clear that it is not feasilble for them to change the schedule now and if Bangladesh does not come to India, another country, most probably Scotland, will replace it at the event. Why Bangladesh does not want to come to India? The whole matter started when Bangladesh bowler Mustafizur Rahman was released from Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad of IPL 2026. He was bought by the team for INR 9.2 crore at the IPL 2026 auction and was the only player to be bought at the auction from the country. Immediatley after, Bangladesh stopped the broadcast of the league in the country for idefinite period and asked the ICC to move the venues of its matches from India to Sri Lanka.

While the Asian country has remained steadfast on travelling to India, it has sent the ball back in the ICC's court and has remained opened to play in Sri Lanka - co-host of the tournament along with India.

'Champions Trophy last February': Bangladesh uses India's example to accuse ICC of playing favorites

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

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

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

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

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

Bangladesh has decided to remain firm on its stance of not coming to India for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026. They, however, hope that ICC allows them to play their matches in Sri Lanka - co-host of the tournament alongside India. The statement comes a day after ICC gave Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) 24-hour notice to change their stand while not making any changes to the tournament schedule, set to begin on Feb 7. The BCB held a meeting in Dhaka on Thursday (Jan 22) about the ICC's decision and came out standing firm on their stance.<h2>Is Bangladesh coming to India for 2026 T20 World Cup?</h2>"We will go back to the ICC with our plan to play in Sri Lanka. They did give us a 24 hour ultimatum but a global body can't really do that. ICC will miss out on 200 million people watching the World Cup. It will be their loss ... ICC is calling Sri Lanka co-hosts. They are not co-hosts. It is a hybrid model. Some of the things I heard in the ICC meeting was shocking," said BCB president Aminul Islam while talking to press after meeting with the country's cricketers and government's sports advisor Asif Nazrul.<h2>Where is Bangladesh scheduled to play in India during 2026 T20 World Cup?</h2>Bangladesh are placed in Group C along with England, Italy, Nepal, and West Indies. They are scheduled to play their first three group matches in Kolkata on February 7 (vs West Indies), February 9 (vs Italy) and February 14 (vs England) before the final match in Mumbai on February 17 (vs Nepal).<h2>Why Bangladesh are not coming to India for T20 World Cup 2026?</h2>The whole matter started when Bangladesh bowler Mustafizur Rahman was released from Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad of IPL 2026. He was bought by the team for INR 9.2 crore at the IPL 2026 auction and was the only player to be bought at the auction from the country. Immediatley after, Bangladesh stopped the broadcast of the league in the country for idefinite period and asked the ICC to move the venues of its matches from India to Sri Lanka.

Bangladesh are placed in Group C along with England, Italy, Nepal, and West Indies. They are scheduled to play their first three group matches in Kolkata on February 7 (vs WI), February 9 (vs Italy) and February 14 (vs England) before the final match in Mumbai on February 17 (vs Nepal).

Bangladesh has decided to remain firm on its stance of not coming to India for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026. They, however, hope that ICC allows them to play their matches in Sri Lanka - co-host of the tournament alongside India. The statement comes a day after ICC gave Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) 24-hour notice to change their stand while not making any changes to the tournament schedule, set to begin on Feb 7. The BCB held a meeting in Dhaka on Thursday (Jan 22) about the ICC's decision and came out standing firm on their stance. Is Bangladesh coming to India for 2026 T20 World Cup? "We will go back to the ICC with our plan to play in Sri Lanka. They did give us a 24 hour ultimatum but a global body can't really do that. ICC will miss out on 200 million people watching the World Cup. It will be their loss ... ICC is calling Sri Lanka co-hosts. They are not co-hosts. It is a hybrid model. Some of the things I heard in the ICC meeting was shocking," said BCB president Aminul Islam while talking to press after meeting with the country's cricketers and government's sports advisor Asif Nazrul. Where is Bangladesh scheduled to play in India during 2026 T20 World Cup? Bangladesh are placed in Group C along with England, Italy, Nepal, and West Indies. They 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). Why Bangladesh are not coming to India for T20 World Cup 2026? The whole matter started when Bangladesh bowler Mustafizur Rahman was released from Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad of IPL 2026. He was bought by the team for INR 9.2 crore at the IPL 2026 auction and was the only player to be bought at the auction from the country. Immediatley after, Bangladesh stopped the broadcast of the league in the country for idefinite period and asked the ICC to move the venues of its matches from India to Sri Lanka.

Bangladesh are placed in Group C along with England, Italy, Nepal, and West Indies. They are scheduled to play their first three group matches in Kolkata on February 7 (vs WI), February 9 (vs Italy) and February 14 (vs England) before the final match in Mumbai on February 17 (vs Nepal).

Bangladesh not coming to India - BCB remains firm on playing T20 World Cup 2026 in Sri Lanka despite ICC ultimatum

The last time India played in a T20 World Cup, they lifted the trophy under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy in 2024. India beat South Africa in the final, ending a long wait for an ICC title. With that win, Rohit became only the second Indian captain after MS Dhoni to win the T20 World Cup. Now in 2026, things are different. Rohit, who retired from T20Is after the 2024 victory, will not be part of the upcoming T20 World Cup starting in February and will instead watch from outside the team.&nbsp;Speaking on JioHotstar’s show ‘Captain Rohit Sharma’s Roadmap for T20 World Cup’, Rohit said it would feel strange to watch the tournament from home. He explained that he had played in every T20 World Cup since the beginning, so missing one feels different. While watching regular T20 matches does not affect him much, missing a World Cup makes the reality sink in.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We were talking about this at home, that it will be strange watching it from home, especially the T20 World Cup. From the time it started until now, I have been part of every World Cup, so it will feel different. When I watch the team playing T20 games, the feeling of missing out isn’t as much. But when you miss a World Cup, the reality really sinks in. That’s when you realise you’re not going to be part of it. So it will be a little weird. However, I will be somewhere in the stadium. It won’t be the same and it will be a different experience, but I’m actually looking forward to it. It will be quite amazing,” Rohit said on JioHotstar’s ‘Captain Rohit Sharma’s Roadmap for T20 World Cup’ show.&nbsp;&nbsp;India will also miss Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja in this edition, as both retired from T20Is on the same day as Rohit after the 2024 triumph. This time, Suryakumar Yadav will lead the team. Under his leadership, India have won over 72 per cent of their T20I matches.&nbsp;&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;Rohit also shared his thoughts on the current Indian squad. He said that the players understand each other well, which will help the team moving forward. According to him, most of the squad has stayed the same for the past two years, with around 80-90 per cent of the players continuing from the last T20 World Cup.&nbsp;“When I watch the matches, I feel there is a strong sense of understanding within the team, developed through playing together. One positive aspect is that almost all of them are of a similar age, apart from a few exceptions. Otherwise, I think the average age is probably close to 25, which is always good, because you have to have a lot of discussions, a lot of open conversations and also some hard conversations when you are heading into a World Cup, as the only aim is to win it. For that, if you have to take certain hard calls where someone you play with, even a close friend, might feel bad, it should be okay. So I think it is very important to create that kind of relationship among players,” Rohit added.

India will also miss Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja in this edition, as both retired from T20Is on the same day as Rohit after the 2024 triumph. This time, Suryakumar Yadav will lead the team. Under his leadership, India have won over 72 per cent of their T20I matches. 



The last time India played in a T20 World Cup, they lifted the trophy under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy in 2024. India beat South Africa in the final, ending a long wait for an ICC title. With that win, Rohit became only the second Indian captain after MS Dhoni to win the T20 World Cup. Now in 2026, things are different. Rohit, who retired from T20Is after the 2024 victory, will not be part of the upcoming T20 World Cup starting in February and will instead watch from outside the team. Speaking on JioHotstar’s show ‘Captain Rohit Sharma’s Roadmap for T20 World Cup’, Rohit said it would feel strange to watch the tournament from home. He explained that he had played in every T20 World Cup since the beginning, so missing one feels different. While watching regular T20 matches does not affect him much, missing a World Cup makes the reality sink in. “We were talking about this at home, that it will be strange watching it from home, especially the T20 World Cup. From the time it started until now, I have been part of every World Cup, so it will feel different. When I watch the team playing T20 games, the feeling of missing out isn’t as much. But when you miss a World Cup, the reality really sinks in. That’s when you realise you’re not going to be part of it. So it will be a little weird. However, I will be somewhere in the stadium. It won’t be the same and it will be a different experience, but I’m actually looking forward to it. It will be quite amazing,” Rohit said on JioHotstar’s ‘Captain Rohit Sharma’s Roadmap for T20 World Cup’ show. India will also miss Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja in this edition, as both retired from T20Is on the same day as Rohit after the 2024 triumph. This time, Suryakumar Yadav will lead the team. Under his leadership, India have won over 72 per cent of their T20I matches. Also Read - ICC upholds Bangladesh's demands, reassures no changes in T20 World Cup schedule Rohit also shared his thoughts on the current Indian squad. He said that the players understand each other well, which will help the team moving forward. According to him, most of the squad has stayed the same for the past two years, with around 80-90 per cent of the players continuing from the last T20 World Cup. “When I watch the matches, I feel there is a strong sense of understanding within the team, developed through playing together. One positive aspect is that almost all of them are of a similar age, apart from a few exceptions. Otherwise, I think the average age is probably close to 25, which is always good, because you have to have a lot of discussions, a lot of open conversations and also some hard conversations when you are heading into a World Cup, as the only aim is to win it. For that, if you have to take certain hard calls where someone you play with, even a close friend, might feel bad, it should be okay. So I think it is very important to create that kind of relationship among players,” Rohit added.

India will also miss Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja in this edition, as both retired from T20Is on the same day as Rohit after the 2024 triumph. This time, Suryakumar Yadav will lead the team. Under his leadership, India have won over 72 per cent of their T20I matches.

Ex- India skipper Rohit Sharma says 'quite amazing' on missing T20 World Cup 2026

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Wednesday (Jan 21) upheld Bangladesh’s demands not travel to India for the T20 World Cup 2026. In an official statement released by the apex body of cricket, the ICC has reassured that they will continue with the same schedule and plan to make no changes despite Bangladesh threatening to pull out of the T20 World Cup, which starts on Feb 7. The decision was taken following an ICC Board meeting via video conference, which was convened to discuss the way forward after the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) had asked that its matches be moved out of India to Sri Lanka.<h2>ICC upholds BCB’s demands</h2>An ICC spokesperson’s statement in relation to the decision read, "Over the past several weeks, the ICC has engaged with the BCB in sustained and constructive dialogue, with the clear objective of enabling Bangladesh’s participation in the tournament. During this period, the ICC has shared detailed inputs, including independent security assessments, comprehensive venue-level security plans and formal assurances from the host authorities, all of which consistently concluded that there is no credible or verifiable threat to the safety or security of the Bangladesh team in India.”&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;“Despite these efforts, the BCB maintained its position, repeatedly linking its participation in the tournament to a single, isolated and unrelated development concerning one of its players’ involvement in a domestic league. This linkage has no bearing on the tournament’s security framework or the conditions governing participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;According to media reports, on January 21, the ICC held a key meeting during which all stakeholders voted on Bangladesh’s request. Reports indicate that the demands were rejected by a vote of 14-2, leaving Bangladesh’s participation in the T20 World Cup in doubt unless the BCB changes its stance. At present, the Bangladesh government has refused to give the BCB permission to travel to India and has insisted on a hybrid model in which the team would not play in India.

In an official statement released by the apex body of cricket, the ICC has reassured that they will continue with the same schedule and plan to make no changes despite Bangladesh threatening to pull out of the T20 World Cup, which starts on Feb 7.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Wednesday (Jan 21) upheld Bangladesh’s demands not travel to India for the T20 World Cup 2026. In an official statement released by the apex body of cricket, the ICC has reassured that they will continue with the same schedule and plan to make no changes despite Bangladesh threatening to pull out of the T20 World Cup, which starts on Feb 7. The decision was taken following an ICC Board meeting via video conference, which was convened to discuss the way forward after the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) had asked that its matches be moved out of India to Sri Lanka. ICC upholds BCB’s demands An ICC spokesperson’s statement in relation to the decision read, "Over the past several weeks, the ICC has engaged with the BCB in sustained and constructive dialogue, with the clear objective of enabling Bangladesh’s participation in the tournament. During this period, the ICC has shared detailed inputs, including independent security assessments, comprehensive venue-level security plans and formal assurances from the host authorities, all of which consistently concluded that there is no credible or verifiable threat to the safety or security of the Bangladesh team in India.” ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds “Despite these efforts, the BCB maintained its position, repeatedly linking its participation in the tournament to a single, isolated and unrelated development concerning one of its players’ involvement in a domestic league. This linkage has no bearing on the tournament’s security framework or the conditions governing participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli According to media reports, on January 21, the ICC held a key meeting during which all stakeholders voted on Bangladesh’s request. Reports indicate that the demands were rejected by a vote of 14-2, leaving Bangladesh’s participation in the T20 World Cup in doubt unless the BCB changes its stance. At present, the Bangladesh government has refused to give the BCB permission to travel to India and has insisted on a hybrid model in which the team would not play in India.

In an official statement released by the apex body of cricket, the ICC has reassured that they will continue with the same schedule and plan to make no changes despite Bangladesh threatening to pull out of the T20 World Cup, which starts on Feb 7.

ICC upholds Bangladesh's demands, reassures no changes in T20 World Cup schedule

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to clear their stand on their participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup. BCB, who have communicated its reluctance to travel to India for the T20 World Cup, will have to convey its decision to the apex body of cricket in less than 24 hours or risk losing its place in the tournament. If the latter is the case, Scotland could be approached to replace Bangladesh in the T20 World Cup.<h2>Scotland to feature in T20 World Cup 2026?</h2>According to media reports circulating on Wednesday (Jan 21), the ICC held a key meeting where all the stakeholders voted. It is reported that Bangladesh’s demands were turned down with a vote of 14-2, meaning their participation in the T20 World Cup remains a doubt unless BCB changes it stands. Currently, the Bangladesh government has denied permission to the BCB to travel to India for the T20 World Cup and insisted it demands a hybrid model under which it will not play in India.&nbsp;The BCB has stated that there will be security issues for the Bangladesh players if they travel to India. Currently, both nations are in a diplomatic row over violent attacks on the Hindu community in the nation.&nbsp;The International Cricket Council (ICC) has turned down a request from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to shift Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup matches from India to Sri Lanka, clearing the way for the fixtures to go ahead as scheduled.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;The decision was taken at an ICC Board meeting held via video conference on Wednesday. The meeting was convened after the BCB raised concerns over security and formally sought a change in venues.&nbsp;According to the ICC, the Board examined multiple security assessments, including independent evaluations.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;All of them, the governing body said, found no credible threat to the safety of Bangladesh players, team officials, media personnel, or fans at any of the tournament venues in India.“The ICC Board noted that relocating matches under the present circumstances could jeopardise the sanctity of ICC events and undermine the organisation’s neutrality as a global governing body,” the ICC said in a statement.&nbsp;If the current stand does not change in the next 24 hours, Bangladesh could miss the T20 World Cup, with Scotland replacing them. While there is no official word on Scotland’s participation, the ICC looks ready with a plan B in case Bangladesh fails to make the deadline.

BCB, who have communicated its reluctance to travel to India for the T20 World Cup, will have to convey its decision to the apex body of cricket in less than 24 hours or risk losing its place in the tournament.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to clear their stand on their participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup. BCB, who have communicated its reluctance to travel to India for the T20 World Cup, will have to convey its decision to the apex body of cricket in less than 24 hours or risk losing its place in the tournament. If the latter is the case, Scotland could be approached to replace Bangladesh in the T20 World Cup. Scotland to feature in T20 World Cup 2026? According to media reports circulating on Wednesday (Jan 21), the ICC held a key meeting where all the stakeholders voted. It is reported that Bangladesh’s demands were turned down with a vote of 14-2, meaning their participation in the T20 World Cup remains a doubt unless BCB changes it stands. Currently, the Bangladesh government has denied permission to the BCB to travel to India for the T20 World Cup and insisted it demands a hybrid model under which it will not play in India. The BCB has stated that there will be security issues for the Bangladesh players if they travel to India. Currently, both nations are in a diplomatic row over violent attacks on the Hindu community in the nation. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has turned down a request from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to shift Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup matches from India to Sri Lanka, clearing the way for the fixtures to go ahead as scheduled. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli The decision was taken at an ICC Board meeting held via video conference on Wednesday. The meeting was convened after the BCB raised concerns over security and formally sought a change in venues. According to the ICC, the Board examined multiple security assessments, including independent evaluations. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds All of them, the governing body said, found no credible threat to the safety of Bangladesh players, team officials, media personnel, or fans at any of the tournament venues in India. “The ICC Board noted that relocating matches under the present circumstances could jeopardise the sanctity of ICC events and undermine the organisation’s neutrality as a global governing body,” the ICC said in a statement. If the current stand does not change in the next 24 hours, Bangladesh could miss the T20 World Cup, with Scotland replacing them. While there is no official word on Scotland’s participation, the ICC looks ready with a plan B in case Bangladesh fails to make the deadline.

BCB, who have communicated its reluctance to travel to India for the T20 World Cup, will have to convey its decision to the apex body of cricket in less than 24 hours or risk losing its place in the tournament.

T20 World Cup 2026: Scotland to replace Bangladesh? ICC gives BCB 24-hour ultimatum - Report

England white-ball captain Harry Brook has ackonwledged his mistake on New Zealand tour prior to Ashes and vowed to not repea the same mistake again. The incident happened in Wellington in October last year and Brook was fined $40,000 along with a final warning for his off-field conduct. The statement comes as England get ready to play in a three-match ODI and T20I series in Sri Lanka before the T20 World Cup 2026 which starts Feb 7 in India and Sri Lanka.<h2>Brook acknowledges mistake on NZ tour</h2>"Obviously I made a terrible mistake," Brook said. "Not only as a player, but as a captain. It's very unprofessional and I should be leading from the front.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-2026-coco-gauff-leaving-fashion-to-naomi-osaka-enters-r3-with-perfect-win-1768987523177">Aus Open 2026: Gauff, leaving fashion to Osaka, enters R3 with 'perfect' win</a>"I've learnt from my mistakes, I've reflected a lot on what's happened and I know it wasn't the right thing to do. I want to say sorry to my team-mates, to all the fans that travel far and wide to watch, spend a lot of money on coming out to watch us play cricket and supporting us, and to the ECB for putting them in a tricky situation, and it'll never happen again. I'm extremely sorry," the England skipper added.<h2>What had happened - Brook's New Zealand drama explained</h2>Brook had gotten into an altercation with with a bouncer of a Wellington nightclub while trying to get entry. The player, admittedly, was under influence of alcohol. The bouncer of the nighclub denied entry to Brook, suspecting the England captain to be drunk and the matter escalated. Brook later informed the England Cricket Board (ECB) about the incident himself during which he was not physically injured. He was fined the maximum amount after the investigation but remained the captain of the white-ball teams.

Brook had gotten into an altercation with with a bouncer of a Wellington nightclub while trying to get entry in October last year. The player, admittedly, was under influence of alcohol. The bouncer of the nighclub denied entry to Brook, suspecting the England captain to be drunk.

England white-ball captain Harry Brook has ackonwledged his mistake on New Zealand tour prior to Ashes and vowed to not repea the same mistake again. The incident happened in Wellington in October last year and Brook was fined $40,000 along with a final warning for his off-field conduct. The statement comes as England get ready to play in a three-match ODI and T20I series in Sri Lanka before the T20 World Cup 2026 which starts Feb 7 in India and Sri Lanka. Brook acknowledges mistake on NZ tour "Obviously I made a terrible mistake," Brook said. "Not only as a player, but as a captain. It's very unprofessional and I should be leading from the front. Also Read - Aus Open 2026: Gauff, leaving fashion to Osaka, enters R3 with 'perfect' win "I've learnt from my mistakes, I've reflected a lot on what's happened and I know it wasn't the right thing to do. I want to say sorry to my team-mates, to all the fans that travel far and wide to watch, spend a lot of money on coming out to watch us play cricket and supporting us, and to the ECB for putting them in a tricky situation, and it'll never happen again. I'm extremely sorry," the England skipper added. What had happened - Brook's New Zealand drama explained Brook had gotten into an altercation with with a bouncer of a Wellington nightclub while trying to get entry. The player, admittedly, was under influence of alcohol. The bouncer of the nighclub denied entry to Brook, suspecting the England captain to be drunk and the matter escalated. Brook later informed the England Cricket Board (ECB) about the incident himself during which he was not physically injured. He was fined the maximum amount after the investigation but remained the captain of the white-ball teams.

Brook had gotten into an altercation with with a bouncer of a Wellington nightclub while trying to get entry in October last year. The player, admittedly, was under influence of alcohol. The bouncer of the nighclub denied entry to Brook, suspecting the England captain to be drunk.

England white-ball captain Harry Brook 'sorry to my team-mates' for nightclub bouncer altercation in New Zealand

Bangladesh captain Litton Das has acknowledged the uncertainty over the team's participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026. The ICC tournament, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, is scheduled to start from Feb 7 next month. The captain's comments come amid Bangladesh board's refusal to send the team to India citing 'players safety' concerns. The apex body is yet to release an official statement on the matter but reports suggest that a decision is expected by January 21. According to media reports, the ICC has asked Bangladesh to either come to India to get replaced by Scotland.<h2>Bangladesh captain Litton Das on T20 World Cup 2026</h2>"If we had known who our group opponents were [in the World Cup] or which country we were going to, that would have helped," Litton said after his Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) side Rangpur Riders' exit from the tournament on Tuesday (Jan 20). "You have seen that we have announced the squad, but until now, no player knows which country we are going to or whom we will play against. Like me, the whole of Bangladesh is now uncertain."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-jellyfish-naomi-osaka-with-a-hat-a-veil-and-an-umbrella-sails-through-australian-open-2026-round-1-1768916354188">'Jellyfish' Osaka sails through Australian Open 2026 round 1</a>Bangladesh are scheduled to play their first three group matches in Kolkata on February 7 (vs West Indies), February 9 (vs Italy) and February 14 (vs England) before the final match in Mumbai on February 17 (vs Nepal).<h2>Why Bangladesh is refusing to travel to India?</h2>The whole matter started when Bangladesh bowler Mustafizur Rahman was released from Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad of IPL 2026. He was bought by the team for INR 9.2 crore at the IPL 2026 auction and was the only player to be bought at the auction from the country. Immediatley after, Bangladesh stopped the broadcast of the league in the country for idefinite period and asked the ICC to move the venues of its matches. The apex body has held the discussions with Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) officials but no positive outcome has been reached so far with Bangladesh firm on the demand of not wanting to play in India.

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).

Bangladesh captain Litton Das has acknowledged the uncertainty over the team's participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026. The ICC tournament, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, is scheduled to start from Feb 7 next month. The captain's comments come amid Bangladesh board's refusal to send the team to India citing 'players safety' concerns. The apex body is yet to release an official statement on the matter but reports suggest that a decision is expected by January 21. According to media reports, the ICC has asked Bangladesh to either come to India to get replaced by Scotland. Bangladesh captain Litton Das on T20 World Cup 2026 "If we had known who our group opponents were [in the World Cup] or which country we were going to, that would have helped," Litton said after his Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) side Rangpur Riders' exit from the tournament on Tuesday (Jan 20). "You have seen that we have announced the squad, but until now, no player knows which country we are going to or whom we will play against. Like me, the whole of Bangladesh is now uncertain." Also Read - 'Jellyfish' Osaka sails through Australian Open 2026 round 1 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). Why Bangladesh is refusing to travel to India? The whole matter started when Bangladesh bowler Mustafizur Rahman was released from Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad of IPL 2026. He was bought by the team for INR 9.2 crore at the IPL 2026 auction and was the only player to be bought at the auction from the country. Immediatley after, Bangladesh stopped the broadcast of the league in the country for idefinite period and asked the ICC to move the venues of its matches. The apex body has held the discussions with Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) officials but no positive outcome has been reached so far with Bangladesh firm on the demand of not wanting to play in India.

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).

'Whole of Bangladesh is uncertain': Skipper Litton Das on travelling to India for T20 World Cup 2026

India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav has confirmed recalled batter Ishan Kishan for the number 3 slot in the playing XI for first of 5 T20Is against New Zealand, set to be played on Wednesday (Jan 21) in Nagpur. The series will be the last chance for India to tune up their preparation ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup which starts Feb 7 and is being co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. India enter the tournament as defending champions, having won the last edition in 2024. Kishan, who is part of the India's T20 world Cup squad as well, will have a shot at cementing his place in the playing XI for good.<h2>SKY confirms Kishan for number 3 slot</h2>Speaking at the press conference on the eve of the 1st T20I, SKY said: "Ishan Kishan will play at No. 3. He is part of the World Cup squad and deserves to play." Kishan's inclusion has been made possible by the shock exclusion of India's Test and ODI skipper Shubman Gill. With Kishan at number 3, wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson is likely to back as an opener alongside Abhishek Sharma -a position given to Gill before he was dropped.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/2026-t20-world-cup-unaware-of-icc-deadline-bangladesh-sports-advisor-reaffirms-stance-against-travelling-to-india-1768905072648">BAN unaware of ‘ICC deadline’; sports advisor reaffirms T20 WC venue row stance</a><h2>Kishan's shot at redemption</h2>Kishan last played for India in November 2023 before falling out of favour with the selectors. His call-up in the national squad came on the back of a sensational Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) - India's premier domestic T20 tournament - where he led Jharkhand to the title. Kishan scored 517 runs in 10 innings of the tournament at an average of 57 a staggering strike rate of 197. He also hit two hundreds and two fifties with a personal best of 113 not out.For India, Kishan had made his T20I debut in March 2021 and has played 32 matches so far - scoring 796 runs at an average of &nbsp;nearly 26 and a strike rate of 124 with six fifties and a personal best of 89. Apart from that, he has also played 27 ODIs and two Tests, scoring 933 and 78 runs, respectively.

Kishan last played for India in November 2023 before falling out of favour with the selectors. His call-up in the national squad came on the back of a sensational Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) - 517 runs in 10 innings of the tournament at an average of 57 a staggering strike rate of 197.

India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav has confirmed recalled batter Ishan Kishan for the number 3 slot in the playing XI for first of 5 T20Is against New Zealand, set to be played on Wednesday (Jan 21) in Nagpur. The series will be the last chance for India to tune up their preparation ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup which starts Feb 7 and is being co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. India enter the tournament as defending champions, having won the last edition in 2024. Kishan, who is part of the India's T20 world Cup squad as well, will have a shot at cementing his place in the playing XI for good. SKY confirms Kishan for number 3 slot Speaking at the press conference on the eve of the 1st T20I, SKY said: "Ishan Kishan will play at No. 3. He is part of the World Cup squad and deserves to play." Kishan's inclusion has been made possible by the shock exclusion of India's Test and ODI skipper Shubman Gill. With Kishan at number 3, wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson is likely to back as an opener alongside Abhishek Sharma -a position given to Gill before he was dropped. Also Read - BAN unaware of ‘ICC deadline’; sports advisor reaffirms T20 WC venue row stance Kishan's shot at redemption Kishan last played for India in November 2023 before falling out of favour with the selectors. His call-up in the national squad came on the back of a sensational Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) - India's premier domestic T20 tournament - where he led Jharkhand to the title. Kishan scored 517 runs in 10 innings of the tournament at an average of 57 a staggering strike rate of 197. He also hit two hundreds and two fifties with a personal best of 113 not out. For India, Kishan had made his T20I debut in March 2021 and has played 32 matches so far - scoring 796 runs at an average of nearly 26 and a strike rate of 124 with six fifties and a personal best of 89. Apart from that, he has also played 27 ODIs and two Tests, scoring 933 and 78 runs, respectively.

Kishan last played for India in November 2023 before falling out of favour with the selectors. His call-up in the national squad came on the back of a sensational Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) - 517 runs in 10 innings of the tournament at an average of 57 a staggering strike rate of 197.

IND vs NZ, 1st T20I: Skipper Suryakumar confirms Ishan Kishan at number 3

Cricket Ireland have firmly ruled out any change to their T20 World Cup 2026 schedule after Bangladesh pushed for a group swap that would allow them to play their matches in Sri Lanka instead of India. The Irish board made it clear that they have received assurances from the ICC that their fixtures will remain untouched and that they will play all their group-stage games in Sri Lanka as originally planned.&nbsp;The development comes after the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) formally requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) to swap Bangladesh’s Group C with Ireland’s Group B. Bangladesh are currently grouped with West Indies, Italy, England and Nepal, with their matches scheduled in Kolkata and Mumbai. Ireland, on the other hand, are placed in Group B alongside Sri Lanka, Australia, Oman and Zimbabwe, and is slated to play their games in Colombo and Pallekele.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-marin-guptill-5-batters-with-most-t20i-sixes-between-india-and-new-zealand-1768657053905">From Rohit Sharma to Marin Guptill: 5 batters with most T20I sixes between India and New Zealand</a>&nbsp;Responding to the proposal, Cricket Ireland dismissed any possibility of relocation. “We've received definitive assurances that we won't move from the original schedule. We're definitely playing the Group Stage in Sri Lanka,” a Cricket Ireland spokesperson was quoted as saying to Cricbuzz.&nbsp;The statement shuts the door on Bangladesh’s hopes of finding an alternative route into Sri Lanka by reshuffling the groups. While Ireland remains confident about their itinerary, the BCB has shown no signs of backing down from its demand to move its World Cup matches out of India.&nbsp;In an official statement, the Bangladesh board said, “During the discussions, the BCB reiterated its formal request to the ICC to relocate Bangladesh's matches to Sri Lanka. The Board also shared the Bangladesh Government's views and concerns on safety and security of the team, Bangladeshi fans, media and other stakeholders.”&nbsp;The BCB’s concerns are reportedly based on what they describe as a perceived security threat to their players and travelling contingent in India. The issue gained further attention after national team pacer Mustafizur Rahman was abruptly delinked from his IPL contract with Kolkata Knight Riders following a directive from the BCCI. That episode has been seen as a major trigger behind Bangladesh’s renewed insistence on shifting venues.&nbsp;At present, Bangladesh’s matches remain scheduled in Kolkata and Mumbai, while Ireland’s fixtures stay locked in Sri Lanka. With Cricket Ireland standing firm, the ICC now faces growing pressure to address the situation without disrupting the tournament structure.

Cricket Ireland confirms its T20 World Cup 2026 schedule in Sri Lanka will remain unchanged, rejecting Bangladesh’s request for a group swap as the BCB continues to push the ICC over security concerns in India.


Cricket Ireland have firmly ruled out any change to their T20 World Cup 2026 schedule after Bangladesh pushed for a group swap that would allow them to play their matches in Sri Lanka instead of India. The Irish board made it clear that they have received assurances from the ICC that their fixtures will remain untouched and that they will play all their group-stage games in Sri Lanka as originally planned. The development comes after the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) formally requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) to swap Bangladesh’s Group C with Ireland’s Group B. Bangladesh are currently grouped with West Indies, Italy, England and Nepal, with their matches scheduled in Kolkata and Mumbai. Ireland, on the other hand, are placed in Group B alongside Sri Lanka, Australia, Oman and Zimbabwe, and is slated to play their games in Colombo and Pallekele. Also read | From Rohit Sharma to Marin Guptill: 5 batters with most T20I sixes between India and New Zealand Responding to the proposal, Cricket Ireland dismissed any possibility of relocation. “We've received definitive assurances that we won't move from the original schedule. We're definitely playing the Group Stage in Sri Lanka,” a Cricket Ireland spokesperson was quoted as saying to Cricbuzz. The statement shuts the door on Bangladesh’s hopes of finding an alternative route into Sri Lanka by reshuffling the groups. While Ireland remains confident about their itinerary, the BCB has shown no signs of backing down from its demand to move its World Cup matches out of India. In an official statement, the Bangladesh board said, “During the discussions, the BCB reiterated its formal request to the ICC to relocate Bangladesh's matches to Sri Lanka. The Board also shared the Bangladesh Government's views and concerns on safety and security of the team, Bangladeshi fans, media and other stakeholders.” The BCB’s concerns are reportedly based on what they describe as a perceived security threat to their players and travelling contingent in India. The issue gained further attention after national team pacer Mustafizur Rahman was abruptly delinked from his IPL contract with Kolkata Knight Riders following a directive from the BCCI. That episode has been seen as a major trigger behind Bangladesh’s renewed insistence on shifting venues. At present, Bangladesh’s matches remain scheduled in Kolkata and Mumbai, while Ireland’s fixtures stay locked in Sri Lanka. With Cricket Ireland standing firm, the ICC now faces growing pressure to address the situation without disrupting the tournament structure.

Cricket Ireland confirms its T20 World Cup 2026 schedule in Sri Lanka will remain unchanged, rejecting Bangladesh’s request for a group swap as the BCB continues to push the ICC over security concerns in India.

Cricket Ireland shuts down Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup venue swap plan

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has asked the International Cricket Council (ICC) to swap its group with Ireland in the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The request comes so Bangladesh can play its matches in Sri Lanka instead of India. Currently, Bangladesh is in Group C along with England, the West Indies, Italy, and Nepal. Their matches are scheduled in Kolkata and Mumbai. Ireland, on the other hand, is in Group B with Sri Lanka, Australia, Oman, and Zimbabwe, with games set in Colombo and Pallekele.&nbsp;An ICC team, including Gaurav Saxena, General Manager, Events and Corporate Communications, and Andrew Ephgrave, General Manager, Integrity Unit, visited Dhaka to discuss security arrangements in India and encourage Bangladesh to stick to the original schedule. Ephgrave attended in person, while Saxena joined virtually due to visa delays.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-5-batters-with-most-test-runs-in-january-2026-1768647396405">Meet 5 batters with most Test runs in January 2026</a>&nbsp;After the meeting, BCB said, “During the discussions, the BCB formally requested the ICC to relocate Bangladesh’s matches to Sri Lanka. We also shared the Bangladesh Government’s views and concerns about safety for our players, fans, media, and other stakeholders.”&nbsp;From the BCB side, top officials including President Mohammad Aminul Islam, Vice Presidents Md Shakawath Hossain and Faruque Ahmed, Director and Chairman of Cricket Operations Committee Nazmul Abedeen, and CEO Nizam Uddin Chowdhury attended the talks.&nbsp;The ICC, however, seems hesitant to approve the request, citing logistical challenges and major schedule changes deep into the tournament. Bangladesh’s demand followed a controversy where pacer Mustafizur Rahman was removed from his IPL contract with Kolkata Knight Riders after a directive from the BCCI.&nbsp;The BCB said both sides will continue discussions to find a solution. “The talks were conducted in a professional and constructive way, with all parties engaging openly. We discussed moving Bangladesh to a different group as a possible solution with minimum changes to the schedule,” the BCB statement added.

Bangladesh has requested the ICC to relocate its T20 World Cup 2026 matches from India to Sri Lanka. Talks between BCB and ICC are ongoing over group adjustments and safety concerns.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has asked the International Cricket Council (ICC) to swap its group with Ireland in the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The request comes so Bangladesh can play its matches in Sri Lanka instead of India. Currently, Bangladesh is in Group C along with England, the West Indies, Italy, and Nepal. Their matches are scheduled in Kolkata and Mumbai. Ireland, on the other hand, is in Group B with Sri Lanka, Australia, Oman, and Zimbabwe, with games set in Colombo and Pallekele. An ICC team, including Gaurav Saxena, General Manager, Events and Corporate Communications, and Andrew Ephgrave, General Manager, Integrity Unit, visited Dhaka to discuss security arrangements in India and encourage Bangladesh to stick to the original schedule. Ephgrave attended in person, while Saxena joined virtually due to visa delays. Also read | Meet 5 batters with most Test runs in January 2026 After the meeting, BCB said, “During the discussions, the BCB formally requested the ICC to relocate Bangladesh’s matches to Sri Lanka. We also shared the Bangladesh Government’s views and concerns about safety for our players, fans, media, and other stakeholders.” From the BCB side, top officials including President Mohammad Aminul Islam, Vice Presidents Md Shakawath Hossain and Faruque Ahmed, Director and Chairman of Cricket Operations Committee Nazmul Abedeen, and CEO Nizam Uddin Chowdhury attended the talks. The ICC, however, seems hesitant to approve the request, citing logistical challenges and major schedule changes deep into the tournament. Bangladesh’s demand followed a controversy where pacer Mustafizur Rahman was removed from his IPL contract with Kolkata Knight Riders after a directive from the BCCI. The BCB said both sides will continue discussions to find a solution. “The talks were conducted in a professional and constructive way, with all parties engaging openly. We discussed moving Bangladesh to a different group as a possible solution with minimum changes to the schedule,” the BCB statement added.

Bangladesh has requested the ICC to relocate its T20 World Cup 2026 matches from India to Sri Lanka. Talks between BCB and ICC are ongoing over group adjustments and safety concerns.

BCB asks ICC to move Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup games from India to Sri Lanka

With the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 just weeks away, talk around venues and security has started picking up pace. Kolkata, which is set to host most of Bangladesh’s group matches, has found itself at the centre of that discussion. But, former India cricketer and West Bengal’s Deputy Sports Minister Manoj Tiwary has a simple message for anyone raising doubts over matches being held in Kolkata. The city knows how to host big games, and it knows how to keep everyone safe.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tiwary has strongly backed Kolkata as a safe venue for Bangladesh’s matches in the T20 World Cup 2026, saying there is no reason to question the city’s security or intent.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/5-batters-fastest-to-22-000-international-runs-1768559208064">5 batters fastest to 22,000 international runs</a>&nbsp;Bangladesh are scheduled to play three of its four group-stage matches at Eden Gardens, and concerns have been raised in some quarters about safety arrangements. Tiwary dismissed those doubts and said Kolkata has always been dependable when it comes to hosting international sport.&nbsp;“It has to be a safe place. Unless the BCCI intervenes and changes the venues, I see no reason why they cannot come and play here.” Tiwary was quoted as saying to India Today.&nbsp;He then gave a clear example to make his point stronger. “If the concern is about safety, then one must also consider that Sheikh Hasina came from Bangladesh, stayed here, and was completely safe. If the FormerPrime Minister of Bangladesh can visit and remain secure, there is no reason to think otherwise for a cricket team,” Tiwary said.&nbsp;For him, the argument ends there. Kolkata has hosted leaders, global events, and high-profile sporting matches before. A cricket team, he feels, should not be treated any differently. Tiwary also made it clear that politics will not be allowed to interfere with sport in the city. “Kolkata has always been a city where sport has stayed away from politics. If the BCCI decides that a match has to be organised here, I am confident there will be no disturbance whatsoever,” he said.&nbsp;He added that the state government has already drawn a clear line on its role. “Our Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has been very clear that the government will not interfere in sporting events unless the police say they are unable to provide security.”&nbsp;Bangladesh will play four group-stage matches in the tournament. Three of them will be at Eden Gardens. They begin their campaign against the West Indies on February 7, followed by games against Italy on February 9 and England on February 14. Their final league match will be against Nepal on February 17 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

Manoj Tiwary backs Kolkata as a safe venue for Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup 2026 matches, saying security is strong, politics won’t interfere, and Eden Gardens is fully ready to host international cricket.


With the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 just weeks away, talk around venues and security has started picking up pace. Kolkata, which is set to host most of Bangladesh’s group matches, has found itself at the centre of that discussion. But, former India cricketer and West Bengal’s Deputy Sports Minister Manoj Tiwary has a simple message for anyone raising doubts over matches being held in Kolkata. The city knows how to host big games, and it knows how to keep everyone safe. Tiwary has strongly backed Kolkata as a safe venue for Bangladesh’s matches in the T20 World Cup 2026, saying there is no reason to question the city’s security or intent. Also read | 5 batters fastest to 22,000 international runs Bangladesh are scheduled to play three of its four group-stage matches at Eden Gardens, and concerns have been raised in some quarters about safety arrangements. Tiwary dismissed those doubts and said Kolkata has always been dependable when it comes to hosting international sport. “It has to be a safe place. Unless the BCCI intervenes and changes the venues, I see no reason why they cannot come and play here.” Tiwary was quoted as saying to India Today. He then gave a clear example to make his point stronger. “If the concern is about safety, then one must also consider that Sheikh Hasina came from Bangladesh, stayed here, and was completely safe. If the FormerPrime Minister of Bangladesh can visit and remain secure, there is no reason to think otherwise for a cricket team,” Tiwary said. For him, the argument ends there. Kolkata has hosted leaders, global events, and high-profile sporting matches before. A cricket team, he feels, should not be treated any differently. Tiwary also made it clear that politics will not be allowed to interfere with sport in the city. “Kolkata has always been a city where sport has stayed away from politics. If the BCCI decides that a match has to be organised here, I am confident there will be no disturbance whatsoever,” he said. He added that the state government has already drawn a clear line on its role. “Our Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has been very clear that the government will not interfere in sporting events unless the police say they are unable to provide security.” Bangladesh will play four group-stage matches in the tournament. Three of them will be at Eden Gardens. They begin their campaign against the West Indies on February 7, followed by games against Italy on February 9 and England on February 14. Their final league match will be against Nepal on February 17 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

Manoj Tiwary backs Kolkata as a safe venue for Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup 2026 matches, saying security is strong, politics won’t interfere, and Eden Gardens is fully ready to host international cricket.

'Why the doubt?': Manoj Tiwary backs Kolkata as safe host in T20 World Cup

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'Why the doubt?': Manoj Tiwary backs Kolkata as safe host in T20 World Cup