Scotland replaces Bangladesh in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, confirms ICC
According to the ICC, the decision came after an extensive engagement process spanning more than three weeks
Scotland have been confirmed as Bangladesh’s replacement for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 after the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) refused to take part in the tournament under the published schedule, the International Cricket Council announced through a media release on Saturday.
ICC rejects venue change request
The ICC’s decision follows Bangladesh’s insistence on moving their World Cup matches out of India to Sri Lanka, citing security concerns. The governing body stated that it found no credible or verifiable security threat to the Bangladesh team in India and therefore rejected the request. The 20-team tournament is scheduled to be played from 7 February to 8 March across India and Sri Lanka.
Extensive discussions with BCB
According to the ICC, the decision came after an extensive engagement process spanning more than three weeks. During this period, the ICC held multiple rounds of discussions with the BCB, both virtually and in person, in an effort to address the concerns raised. These talks were described as transparent and constructive.
Security assessments reviewed
As part of the process, the ICC reviewed the issues cited by the BCB and commissioned independent security assessments from both internal and external experts. The council also shared detailed security and operational plans, including federal and state-level arrangements, as well as enhanced security protocols for the event. These assurances were reiterated at various stages, including at meetings of the ICC Business Corporation (IBC) Board.
The assessments concluded that there was no credible security risk to the Bangladesh team, officials or supporters in India.
Schedule left unchanged
Based on these findings, the ICC decided it would not be appropriate to amend the tournament schedule. The council emphasised the need to protect the integrity of the event, safeguard the interests of all participating teams and fans, and avoid setting precedents that could compromise the neutrality and fairness of ICC tournaments.
Deadline missed, replacement confirmed
Following a meeting on Wednesday, the IBC Board asked the BCB to confirm within 24 hours whether Bangladesh would participate as scheduled. With no confirmation received within the deadline, the ICC moved ahead in line with its governance and qualification processes to name a replacement team.
Scotland step in
Scotland, the highest-ranked T20I side not originally qualified for the tournament, have been drafted in. They are currently ranked 14th in T20Is, ahead of several teams already in the competition, including Namibia, the UAE, Nepal, the USA, Canada, Oman and Italy.