As the International Cricket Council (ICC) is set to make a final decision on Bangladesh’s participation in the 2026 men’s T20 World Cup on Wednesday, BCCI sources have indicated that they have no information regarding Scotland being approached as a replacement if Bangladesh chooses not to travel to India. They added that the global governing body “will decide what it deems best for cricket.”
Bangladesh’s Concerns
Bangladesh has reportedly declined to play their T20 World Cup matches in India, citing security concerns, and has requested the ICC to shift their fixtures to Sri Lanka, one of the co-hosting nations. This decision comes in the wake of the BCCI’s instruction for Kolkata Knight Riders to release pacer Mustafizur Rahman for IPL 2026 amid ongoing political tensions between the two nations.
It is also understood that Bangladesh has suggested to the ICC that they be moved to Group B, swapping places with Ireland, which is scheduled to play its group matches in Sri Lanka. However, the ICC has assured Ireland that such a move will not take place.
BCCI’s Statement
“There is no information with us on Scotland being approached as a replacement. The ICC should decide what it deems best for cricket. Several unverified reports are doing the rounds on social media, and people should rely only on official confirmation,” BCCI sources stated.
ICC’s Position
ICC officials are reportedly displeased with the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s (BCB) position, as they believe the BCB has assured them there is no security threat to Bangladesh. The ICC has made it clear to Bangladesh that if they withdraw from the tournament, it will appoint a replacement team, with Scotland next in line based on their rankings.
Scotland’s Ranking
Scotland is currently the highest-ranked team that did not qualify for the World Cup, according to various media reports. They would be the team to replace Bangladesh if the ICC takes that action.
However, with the event schedule already finalized, the ICC has reportedly been resolute about not altering the World Cup schedule or permitting Bangladesh to compete in Sri Lanka, conveying this stance to the BCB during recent discussions.