T20 World Cup row explodes: BCB says 'we wanted to play' but Bangladesh government said no to India trave

In a surprising turn of events, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed that Scotland will replace Bangladesh in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. The announcement came on Saturday, January 24, 2026, following a decision by the Bangladesh government to prohibit the national cricket team from traveling to India, the host nation for the tournament. This development has sparked a significant row within the cricketing community, as Bangladesh was expected to be one of the key contenders in the competition. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has expressed its disappointment over the government's decision, stating, "We wanted to play" and highlighting the team's readiness and eagerness to participate in the prestigious event. The BCB emphasized that the decision was beyond their control and stressed their commitment to international cricket. The board had been preparing intensively for the World Cup, and the sudden withdrawal has left players and fans alike disheartened. Scotland's inclusion marks a significant opportunity for the team, which has been steadily rising in the ranks of international cricket. The Scottish Cricket Board expressed their excitement and readiness to compete on the world stage, acknowledging the challenging circumstances that led to their participation. This unexpected change underscores the unpredictable nature of international sports events and the impact of geopolitical decisions on global tournaments.

— Authored by Next24 Live