The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has officially confirmed its decision to withdraw from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, citing unsatisfactory security assurances despite multiple rounds of discussions with the International Cricket Council (ICC). With this move, Bangladesh has become the first team in cricket history to boycott an entire World Cup tournament, marking a historic and controversial moment in international sports.
In a final attempt to remain part of the competition, the BCB requested the ICC to refer the matter to its dispute resolution committee. However, the committee ruled that it could not function as an appellate body in this case, effectively clearing the path for the ICC to make a unilateral final decision regarding Bangladesh’s participation.
Following a high-level meeting in Dubai chaired by ICC Chairman Jay Shah, the ICC formally confirmed Scotland as Bangladesh’s replacement in the tournament. Bangladesh’s withdrawal highlights the seriousness of its security concerns and sets a powerful precedent in global cricket governance, sparking widespread debate among fans, analysts, and cricket boards worldwide.
