BCB Proposes Group Swap to Relocate T20 World Cup Matches to Sri Lanka

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has proposed a strategic "group swap" to the International Cricket Council (ICC) as a potential solution to the ongoing standoff regarding the team’s participation in the 2026 T20 World Cup.

In a high-level meeting held in Dhaka on Saturday, the BCB formally requested to be moved from Group C to Group B. This logistical adjustment would allow Bangladesh to play its group-stage matches in Sri Lanka rather than India, bypassing the board’s refusal to travel to India due to security concerns.

The BCB conveyed the Bangladesh government’s official stance, highlighting safety concerns for players, fans, and media personnel.

Moving to Group B (which currently includes co-host Sri Lanka) would facilitate the relocation with minimal disruption to the overall tournament schedule. Reports suggest this could involve a swap with Ireland.

Andrew Ephgrave (ICC Integrity Unit) attended in person, while Gaurav Saxena (ICC Events) joined virtually after facing visa delays.

While the ICC representatives listened to the proposal, no immediate decision was made. The matter has been escalated to ICC Chairman Jay Shah for a final ruling. Both the BCB and ICC have agreed to maintain a "constructive dialogue" as the February 7 tournament opener approaches.

Representing the BCB were President Aminul Islam, Vice Presidents Md Shakawath Hossain and Faruque Ahmed, Cricket Operations Chairman Nazmul Abedeen, and CEO Nizam Uddin Chowdhury.