Kamal Ghorui
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has concluded a constructive and open dialogue with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), covering issues including the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 and the broader growth of cricket in South Asia, the governing body said in a media release. In particular, the discussions acknowledged the disappointment surrounding Bangladesh’s absence from the T20 World Cup, while reaffirming the BCB’s status as a valued Full Member of the ICC. The global governing body emphasised Bangladesh’s rich cricketing heritage and its critical role in growing the sport, highlighting the country’s vibrant fanbase of over 200 million supporters. The ICC also made clear that the national team’s non-participation would not have any long-term impact on cricket in Bangladesh.
Key outcomes from the discussions include: No penalties for BCB: The ICC confirmed that Bangladesh will face no financial, sporting, or administrative sanctions in relation to its T20 World Cup absence. The BCB also retains the right to approach the Dispute Resolution Committee (DRC) under ICC regulations if it wishes. The ICC reiterated its commitment to neutrality and fairness, focusing on facilitation rather than punishment. ICC event hosting 2028–2031: As part of the agreement, Bangladesh has been confirmed to host an ICC event before the 2031 Men’s Cricket World Cup, subject to standard ICC hosting requirements. This decision reflects confidence in Bangladesh’s ability to stage international tournaments and demonstrates the ICC’s commitment to distributing hosting opportunities across its member nations. ICC Chief Executive Sanjog Gupta said, “Bangladesh’s absence from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup is regrettable, but it does not alter our commitment to the country as a core cricketing nation. We remain focused on growing the sport sustainably in Bangladesh, creating opportunities for players and fans, and investing in its long-term competitiveness and global integration.” The ICC, PCB, and BCB, alongside other member boards, reaffirmed their dedication to dialogue, cooperation, and constructive engagement, underlining the importance of unity and integrity in the global cricket community.
