'1 Day To Decide': ICC Warns Bangladesh With Replacement Threat, Check Which Team Will Replace Them?

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has taken a firm stand in its dispute with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) over Bangladesh's refusal to travel to India for the 2026 T20 World Cup.

After a detailed board meeting, the ICC rejected Bangladesh's request to shift its matches out of India and warned that the team could be replaced if it does not agree to the existing schedule.

ICC Rejects Bangladesh's Request

According to sources, the ICC Board voted on the issue and rejected the BCB's proposal by a large margin. The request to move Bangladesh's matches out of India was defeated in a 14-2 vote.

Following this decision, the ICC made it clear that participation in the tournament would only be possible if Bangladesh agrees to play its scheduled matches in India.

The meeting was attended by top officials from Full Member nations, including ICC Chair Jay Shah, BCB President Aminul Islam, and BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia. Representatives from countries such as Australia, England, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka, New Zealand, and others were also part of the discussion.

One-Day Deadline Issued to BCB

At the centre of the issue is Bangladesh's reluctance to confirm travel to India for its Group C matches. Bangladesh is scheduled to play three matches in Kolkata on February 7, 9, and 14, followed by another game in Mumbai on February 17 during the 2026 T20 World Cup.

The ICC has now given the BCB a final deadline of one day to clarify its position. The Bangladesh government has also been informed of the seriousness of the situation. If the team continues to refuse travel, the ICC will move ahead with replacing Bangladesh in the tournament.

Scotland Named as Possible Replacement

If Bangladesh is replaced, Scotland is currently the leading candidate to take its place in Group C. Although Scotland did not qualify directly for the 2026 T20 World Cup through the European Qualifiers, the ICC is considering its inclusion due to the exceptional circumstances.

The ICC has stressed that the tournament schedule cannot be altered at this stage and expects member boards to honour their commitments. A final decision now depends on Bangladesh's response within the given deadline.