Dhaka: Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has reiterated its refusal to play matches in India during the 2026 T20 World Cup, citing security concerns, despite assurances from International Cricket Council (ICC).

Following a video conference with the ICC on January 13, BCB said its position remained unchanged and again requested that Bangladesh’s matches be relocated outside India. The tournament, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, is set to begin on February 7, with Bangladesh currently scheduled to play group matches in Kolkata and Mumbai.

The ICC informed BCB that the tournament schedule had already been finalized and shared a security assessment indicating no specific or elevated threat to the Bangladesh team. While some venues were rated as low to moderate risk, the ICC said these assessments did not warrant moving matches.

The issue escalated after the BCCI removed Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from Kolkata Knight Riders’ IPL 2026 squad, amid worsening bilateral relations. In response, Bangladesh banned IPL broadcasts and formally notified the ICC of its decision not to play in India.

The BCB said discussions with the ICC would continue, but stressed that protecting players and officials remains its top priority.