The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has reportedly requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) to swap their position in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 with Ireland, a move that would see Bangladesh play their matches in Sri Lanka instead of India. This request comes amid security concerns raised by the Bangladesh government regarding the safety of their team, fans, media, and other stakeholders in India.

Currently, Bangladesh is placed in Group C alongside the West Indies, England, Italy, and Nepal, with their matches scheduled to be held in Kolkata and Mumbai. Ireland, on the other hand, is in Group B with Sri Lanka, Australia, Oman, and Zimbabwe, and are set to play their games in Colombo and Pallekele.

The BCB's formal request was discussed during a meeting with ICC representatives in Dhaka. The ICC delegation included Andrew Ephgrave, General Manager, Integrity Unit, while Gaurav Saxena, General Manager, Events and Corporate Communications, joined virtually after facing visa issues. Representing the BCB were President Mohammad Aminul Islam, Vice Presidents Md Shakawath Hossain and Faruque Ahmed, Director and Chairman of the Cricket Operations Committee Nazmul Abedeen, and Chief Executive Officer Nizam Uddin Chowdhury.

During the meeting, the BCB reiterated the Bangladesh government's concerns regarding security issues in India, prompting their request to relocate Bangladesh's matches to Sri Lanka. The request follows security concerns that arose after pacer Mustafizur Rahman was unexpectedly delinked from his IPL contract with Kolkata Knight Riders following a directive from the BCCI.

However, sources indicate that the ICC is hesitant to approve the move, citing logistical constraints and the significant disruptions such a swap would create at this stage of the tournament. The ICC, in consultation with the BCCI, had previously explored the possibility of hosting Bangladesh's group-stage games in Chennai and Thiruvananthapuram, with both associations indicating their willingness to accommodate the matches if required.

The Times of India reports that the ICC is under pressure as Bangladesh demands a last-minute T20 World Cup switch. News9 Live reports that the ICC failed to convince Bangladesh for T20 World Cup participation in India as deadlock continues.

It is understood that the ICC is reluctant to accept Bangladesh's demand, considering the logistical challenges involved. Despite the ICC's reluctance, the BCB has remained firm on its decision not to travel to India for the event, citing security issues. The BCB and the ICC have agreed to continue engaging in constructive dialogue on this matter. Talks are expected to continue as both parties seek a workable solution to the ongoing impasse.