The International Cricket Council (ICC) has reportedly rejected the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s (BCB) request to move their upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 matches out of India, despite concerns raised by the board over player safety and political tensions between the two countries.

Bangladesh had formally asked the ICC to relocate its Group C fixtures, scheduled to be played in Kolkata and Mumbai, to another venue — preferably Sri Lanka — citing security concerns following the controversial release of pacer Mustafizur Rahman from the Kolkata Knight Riders squad ahead of the IPL season and a perceived deterioration in bilateral relations.

According to reports, the ICC informed the BCB during a virtual meeting that their request would not be entertained and that the existing schedule and venues would remain unchanged.

The governing body has emphasised that there are no credible security red flags warranting a shift and that Bangladesh will be expected to travel to India to play their matches or risk forfeiting points. The BCB, however, has denied receiving any formal ultimatum on sanctions.

Bangladesh’s four group matches are slated to begin on February 7, with fixtures against West Indies, Italy (twice) and Nepal scheduled at Eden Gardens, Kolkata and Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

The controversy has drawn attention to the complex interplay of cricket administration, diplomacy and security ahead of one of the sport’s biggest tournaments.