The International Cricket Council (ICC) is reportedly exploring alternative venues within India for Bangladesh’s matches during the T20 World Cup 2026, amid ongoing security concerns raised by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). The board had formally requested moving Bangladesh’s fixtures entirely out of India to Sri Lanka, citing player safety following recent geopolitical tensions. However, with less than four weeks before the tournament’s February 7 start, logistical challenges are making the ICC reluctant to approve such a move.
The dispute intensified after Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman was released by IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders on the recommendation of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). While the ICC has assured full security arrangements, BCB officials continue to stress that playing on Indian soil may compromise player safety. Reports suggest the ICC is likely to reject Bangladesh’s request to relocate to Sri Lanka. Instead, in consultation with the BCCI, the ICC is considering shifting Bangladesh’s matches to alternate venues within India, with Chennai and Thiruvananthapuram emerging as potential options.
Originally, Bangladesh was scheduled to play three group-stage matches in Kolkata: against West Indies on February 7, Italy on February 9, and England on February 14, before moving to Mumbai to face Nepal on February 17. Both the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) and Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) have been approached to host these matches. The TNCA has confirmed readiness to accommodate additional fixtures at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, citing the availability of eight prepared pitches, while the KCA has shown strong interest in hosting matches in Thiruvananthapuram. Chennai is already a confirmed venue for the tournament, including potential Super 8 fixtures, whereas Thiruvananthapuram is not part of the original venue list.
