The International Cricket Council (ICC) has categorically ruled out any sanction against the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) following Bangladesh’s absence from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, while reaffirming its long-term commitment to the country by promising future hosting opportunities and sustained investment in its cricket ecosystem.
The assurance came after a dialogue between ICC officials and the BCB on Monday, during which several key issues were discussed, including the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 and the broader outlook for cricket development in South Asia.
Bangladesh did not take part in the ongoing T20 World Cup citing security concerns in India, prompting the ICC to invite Scotland to participate in their place. Addressing the matter, the world cricket governing body acknowledged Bangladesh’s non-participation but stressed that it would not result in any financial, sporting or administrative consequences.
“It is agreed that no financial, sporting or administrative penalty will be imposed on the Bangladesh Cricket Board in relation to the current matter,” the ICC said in a media release, adding that the BCB retains the right to approach the Dispute Resolution Committee (DRC) under existing ICC regulations should it choose to do so.
The ICC further reaffirmed Bangladesh’s standing as a valued Full Member, underlining the country’s significant contribution to the global game.
“While reflecting on the Bangladesh cricket team’s unfortunate absence from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, the ICC reaffirmed BCB’s position as a valued Full Member, with a proud cricketing history and a vital role in the growth of the global game,” the statement said.
The ICC stressed that Bangladesh’s non-participation would not have any long-term impact on cricket in the country, describing Bangladesh as one of the most vibrant cricket markets in the world with more than 200 million passionate fans.
“The ICC reiterated its continued facilitation of growth in one of cricket’s most vibrant markets to ensure that the national team’s non-participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup does not have any long-term effects on cricket in the country,” the release added.
The statement comes amid ongoing talks between the ICC and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to resolve Pakistan’s boycott of their group-stage match against India at the same tournament, highlighting the complex geopolitical challenges surrounding the event.
In a significant forward-looking commitment, the ICC also announced that Bangladesh will host an ICC event prior to the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2031, subject to standard hosting processes and operational requirements.
“This reflects confidence in Bangladesh’s capability as a host and reinforces the ICC’s commitment to providing meaningful hosting opportunities across its membership,” the ICC said.
ICC Chief Executive Sanjog Gupta described Bangladesh’s absence from the tournament as regrettable but emphasized that it does not alter the ICC’s long-term vision for the country.
“Bangladesh’s absence from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup is regrettable, but it does not alter the ICC’s enduring commitment to Bangladesh as a core cricketing nation,” Gupta said.
“Bangladesh remains a priority cricket ecosystem deserving of long-term investment in its development, competitiveness and global integration, and is not defined by short-term disruptions.”
