Bangladesh remains firm on its decision not to travel to India for participating in the upcoming T20 World Cup, despite receiving a letter from the International Cricket Council (ICC) assuring security.
Youth and Sports Adviser and Law Adviser Asif Nazrul confirmed the decision after a meeting with Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) directors on Wednesday evening.
Speaking to reporters, Asif Nazrul said Bangladesh wants to play in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, but not at the expense of national dignity, safety, or respect. The ICC’s letter failed to adequately address what Bangladesh considers serious security concerns for its cricketers.

“After reading the ICC’s letter, it appears they have not been able to fully grasp the gravity of the security risks Bangladeshi players would face in India. To me, this is not only a security issue but also a matter of national dignity,” he said.

He stressed that Bangladesh would not compromise on the safety of its players or the country’s honour under any circumstances. “I do not want to comment on India’s communal situation. But when it comes to the security of our cricketers, the safety of Bangladesh and the country’s dignity, there will be no compromise,” he said.

Asif Nazrul reiterated that Bangladesh is keen to play in the T20 World Cup but prefers to do so in an alternative host country. “We want to play cricket, we want to play the World Cup. We want to play in another host country, Sri Lanka. We are firm on this position,” he said.

He added that Bangladesh would first focus on convincing the ICC of its stance. “We have strong arguments, and we will present them to the ICC. Our position is clear: there will be no compromise on Bangladesh’s security, honour and dignity. At the same time, we do want to play in the World Cup,” he said.

According to the adviser, Bangladesh will formally communicate its position to the ICC by Tuesday night or Wednesday morning. He expressed hope that the ICC would consider Bangladesh’s concerns “with sincerity and neutrality” and ensure that the team does not lose the opportunity to participate in the T20 World Cup it earned through qualification.

“For now, our decision is clear,” Asif Nazrul said. “We will explain to the ICC that the environment in India is not suitable for us to play under the current circumstances. Further decisions will be taken based on how the situation unfolds.”