Asif Akbar explains why Bangladesh team will not go to India

Bangladesh will not be participating in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup matches in India, following a government decision citing security concerns. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) had made extensive efforts to relocate their matches to Sri Lanka and had formally requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) to reconsider the arrangements. While the ICC granted temporary leeway to review the situation, both organisations ultimately adhered to their respective positions, resulting in Bangladesh’s absence from the tournament.

BCB director Asif Akbar confirmed that the decision was taken on the basis of intelligence reports received by the government. The security concerns first surfaced on 3 January, after fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman was withdrawn from the Indian Premier League’s Kolkata Knight Riders squad, sparking wider questions over player safety.

On 22 January, during a press briefing at the InterContinental Hotel, Youth and Sports Advisor Asif Nazrul clarified that the government had officially decided not to send the national cricket team to India for security reasons.

At the BCB’s board meeting on 24 January, questions regarding Bangladesh’s withdrawal from the World Cup were raised. Addressing the press, Akbar elaborated:

“The government’s decision was based on intelligence reports. Their concern was the safety of players, journalists, spectators, and tactical staff. Considering recent incidents, any potential security breach would be our responsibility, which we cannot assume. This is a government directive.”

Following 21 days of discussions with the ICC, Bangladesh’s name was formally removed from the tournament schedule. According to Akbar, four ministries—including Information, Foreign Affairs, Sports, and Law—convened to assess the risks and jointly decided against participation.

“Safety is paramount. When the state speaks on security matters, all factors are evaluated. The ICC and BCB are organisations, but they are not sovereign entities. Our cabinet collectively concluded that we cannot take this risk,” Akbar added.

Consequently, the ICC has revised the schedule to include Scotland, currently ranked 14th in T20 international rankings, in Bangladesh’s place. Scotland will compete in Group C alongside debutants Italy, Nepal, and former T20 World Cup champions England and West Indies.

The following table summarises the key details:

The withdrawal has been described by officials as a “necessary precaution,” prioritising the welfare of players, staff, and supporters. While cricket fans in Bangladesh will miss witnessing their team on Indian soil, the government’s stance emphasises security over sporting ambition.