Bangladesh seek shifting of T20 World Cup matches from India amid threats
Dhaka: Bangladesh have formally demanded that their matches in the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup be shifted from India to Sri Lanka, citing threats by Hindutva elements in India.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Bangladeshi cricket officials have approached the International Cricket Council (ICC) with a request to relocate their group-stage matches scheduled in India, particularly in Kolkata, to Sri Lanka.
Bangladesh’s four league matches are currently slated to be played against West Indies on February 7, Italy on February 9, and England on February 14 in Kolkata, followed by their final group match against Nepal on February 17.
Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) officials, speaking to media, confirmed the move, saying they had conveyed their concerns to the ICC. “We have officially communicated our request regarding the venue of our matches,” a BCB official was quoted as saying, adding that the matter was now under consideration by the world body.
Reports said Bangladesh’s request is primarily driven by apprehensions over logistical and security-related issues, amid an increasingly charged atmosphere around international sporting events in India.
The ICC has yet to issue an official response to the request. However, sources indicate that discussions are ongoing, with Sri Lanka being considered as an alternative venue should the ICC decide to make adjustments to the schedule.
The development comes as the ICC continues to face challenges in ensuring the smooth conduct of global events amid the Indian government’s stance and the involvement of Hindutva-sponsored groups.
