The World Cup is set to begin on February 7, with Bangladesh scheduled to compete in four matches (three in Kolkata and one in Mumbai).
The team has declined to travel to India following the release of pacer Mustafizur Rahman from the IPL by the BCCI, which cited unspecified “developments all around” as justification for its decision.
“After discussions with sports ministry advisor Asif Nazrul, the BCB has once more communicated with the ICC regarding security concerns.” A source close to the cricket board shared this with PTI under conditions of anonymity.
However, he did not provide specifics about the contents of the letter.
This update comes amid ongoing negotiations between the BCB and the ICC regarding Bangladesh’s participation. The global body has remained largely silent and has sought clarification on the exact nature of the security concerns raised by the Dhaka-based board.
It’s understood that there are divisions within the BCB on this issue.
One faction supports Nazrul’s hardline approach, while another is advocating for continued dialogue with the ICC and Indian authorities.
This group emphasizes the need for enhanced and foolproof security for the entire Bangladesh team during their stay in India.
Nazrul, known for his previous criticisms of India, has reportedly taken a more uncompromising stance, marking a significant shift from the BCB’s historically cordial relationship with the BCCI.
Mustafizur’s release followed incidents involving assaults on minorities in Bangladesh.
Currently, the ICC has not indicated any willingness to relocate Bangladesh’s matches from Kolkata and Mumbai to Colombo.
The BCB, however, has asserted that the ICC is open to collaborating on assessing the security concerns.
