Mustafizur’s IPL Exit Prompts Bangladesh to Request T20 WC Games Relocation

Bangladesh Asks ICC to Move T20 World Cup Matches Out of India After Mustafizur Controversy.

Bangladesh’s interim government has directed the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to request the relocation of the team’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 matches from India to Sri Lanka. The move comes after Kolkata Knight Riders, following BCCI instructions, terminated the contract of Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman, sparking widespread criticism.

Bangladesh sports adviser Asif Nazrul confirmed the development on January 3, calling the decision “an insult to Bangladesh, Bangladeshi cricket, and its players.” He said the BCB will formally write to the ICC, citing security concerns for the team if a contracted player cannot safely participate in India. Nazrul also hinted that IPL broadcasts could be suspended in Bangladesh.

Bangladesh are scheduled to begin their World Cup campaign on February 7 against West Indies at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, followed by matches against Italy (Feb 9), England (Feb 14) in Kolkata, and Nepal at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

The controversy has prompted an emergency BCB meeting to discuss security arrangements. Former Bangladesh cricketers and board officials criticised the BCCI and IPL, calling Mustafizur’s ouster “deeply disappointing” and a source of embarrassment for fans.

Tensions between the boards may also affect bilateral cricket, with a proposed limited-overs series in Bangladesh unlikely to go ahead due to ongoing security concerns.