Despite standing firm on its position and opting out of the T20 World Cup, Bangladesh will not face any punishment or financial penalty from the International Cricket Council (ICC). Instead, the global cricket governing body has announced that Bangladesh will be awarded the hosting rights for another ICC global tournament before the 2031 ODI World Cup.
The decision was confirmed in an official ICC press release issued today.
Following Pakistan’s announcement that it would not play its T20 World Cup match against India, a meeting was held yesterday between the ICC, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). Later that night, BCB President Aminul Islam stated in a separate briefing that he had urged Pakistan to reconsider and play the match against India. Shortly after, the ICC disclosed its decisions regarding Bangladesh’s position in the tournament.
In its statement, the ICC said that discussions with both PCB and BCB were held in a cordial and constructive environment, focusing on the T20 World Cup and the broader future of cricket in South Asia.
The ICC described Bangladesh’s absence from the T20 World Cup as a “regrettable absence.” Bangladesh had sought to play its World Cup matches in Sri Lanka instead of India, citing security concerns following the exclusion of Mustafizur Rahman from the Indian Premier League. However, after the ICC declined that request, Bangladesh ultimately decided not to participate in the tournament.
The ICC emphasized that Bangladesh has a proud cricketing heritage and plays a vital role in the global development of the sport. With a fan base exceeding 200 million supporters, Bangladesh represents one of the world’s most vibrant cricket markets. The ICC stated that it would continue supporting the growth of cricket in the country and ensure that Bangladesh’s non-participation in the T20 World Cup does not have any long-term negative impact.
No Penalty for the BCB
The BCB later clarified two key points following the ICC announcement. First, no financial, sporting, or administrative sanctions will be imposed on the Bangladesh Cricket Board due to its absence from the World Cup, considering the prevailing circumstances.
Second, the BCB retains the right to approach the Dispute Resolution Committee (DRC) if it chooses to do so. This right remains fully protected under existing ICC regulations.
Hosting Rights for an Additional ICC Event
As part of a mutual understanding between the ICC, BCB, and PCB, it has been agreed that Bangladesh will host an ICC event before 2031, subject to the ICC’s standard hosting selection process, scheduling, and operational requirements.
Bangladesh is already scheduled to co-host the 2031 ODI World Cup with India, and this newly announced event will come in addition to that commitment.
Quoting ICC Chief Executive Sanjog Gupta, the statement read:
“Bangladesh’s absence from the T20 World Cup is unfortunate. However, it does not alter the ICC’s long-standing commitment to Bangladesh as a major cricket nation. We remain focused on working closely with the BCB and key stakeholders to strengthen sustainable development in Bangladeshi cricket and create future opportunities for players and fans alike.”
