ICC has confirmed Scotland replaces Bangladesh in the 2026 T20 World Cup after Dhaka’s boycott over security issues in India.
The International Cricket Council announced on Saturday that Scotland replaces Bangladesh in T20 World Cup. The decision follows Bangladesh’s refusal to travel to India for the event co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, starting 7 February 2026. Security concerns prompted the boycott, leading to ICC Bangladesh replacement. This marks a rare withdrawal from a major tournament.
The move alters the tournament’s composition and reduces South Asian participation. Bangladesh, a full ICC member since 2000, has competed in every T20 World Cup since 2007. Their absence shifts focus to emerging teams like Scotland and highlights tensions in regional cricket relations. With India as a co-host, the boycott underscores ongoing diplomatic strains between Bangladesh and India, affecting fan engagement across South Asia.
Bangladesh Boycott T20 World Cup Explained
Bangladesh’s decision stems from security fears related to travel to India. The Bangladesh Cricket Board held meetings with players and officials before confirming the stance. BCB president Aminul Islam Bulbul stated: “Our only demand is to play the World Cup but not in India.” This position received backing from the Bangladesh government, which cited risks to the team.
Sports advisor Asif Nazrul emphasised that the team would not participate at the expense of safety. Independent assessments by ICC found no substantial threats, but Bangladesh remained firm. The board requested venue shifts for their group matches, which ICC rejected.
This Bangladesh boycott T20 World Cup could cost the BCB up to 240 crore in revenue, with projections of a 50% drop in overall earnings. Participation in ICC events provides crucial funding through broadcast rights and grants. Without it, development programmes in Bangladesh may suffer, including youth academies and infrastructure projects. Former BCB officials have warned that the nation risks being seen as unreliable in international cricket circles.
ICC Bangladesh Replacement Process
ICC acted swiftly after Bangladesh’s confirmation of non-participation. The board voted to enforce the replacement, with reports of a 14-2 decision in favour of proceeding without concessions. Scotland, the next eligible team based on qualifiers and rankings, was selected. This ICC Bangladesh replacement maintains the 20-team format for the tournament.
The process follows ICC protocols for withdrawals. In past instances, such as weather or logistical issues, adjustments have been made, but political or security-based boycotts are uncommon. ICC’s refusal to relocate matches prioritised the original hosting agreement with India and Sri Lanka. Tournament venues include major stadiums in cities like Mumbai, Colombo, and Delhi, with no changes announced yet.
Scotland replaces Bangladesh in T20 World Cup, inheriting their group slot. This ensures balance in the competition, with Scotland bringing experience from recent qualifiers.
Scotland T20 World Cup 2026 Opportunity
Scotland’s inclusion opens doors for the associate member. They qualified for previous T20 events and finished strongly in regional competitions. Captain will lead the side, aiming to compete against top teams.
This Scotland T20 World Cup 2026 entry boosts European representation in the event. Scotland has participated in five T20 World Cups, with their best finish in the Super 12 stage in 2021. The team features players like Mark Watt and Brad Wheal, known for upsets against full members. Preparation will involve warm-up matches, with focus on adapting to subcontinental conditions.
For South Asia, Scotland T20 World Cup 2026 means fewer regional rivalries, such as potential Bangladesh-India clashes. Fans in Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and India may see altered dynamics, with Scotland adding unpredictability.
Background
Cricket ties between Bangladesh and India have been strong since Bangladesh’s independence in 1971, with India supporting early development. However, recent political events have strained relations. In 2019, Bangladesh toured India amid protests, but completed the series. The current boycott echoes past security debates, like Pakistan’s limited tours to India since 2008.
Bangladesh joined ICC as a full member after strong performances in the 1997 ICC Trophy. Their T20 record includes 176 matches, with 66 wins. The 2026 event was set to feature stars like Shakib Al Hasan, but the boycott sidelines them. ICC has invested over 100 million USD in associate development, which Scotland benefits from here.
Security in cricket has evolved post-2009 Lahore attack on Sri Lanka’s team. ICC now mandates independent risk assessments, which cleared India for 2026. Despite this, Bangladesh’s interim government prioritised national concerns.
What’s Next
ICC plans to release updated fixtures within days. Bangladesh may appeal the decision, but sources indicate low chances of reversal. Scotland will accelerate preparations, including squad announcements. The tournament proceeds with 55 matches across 9 venues.
As Scotland replaces Bangladesh in T20 World Cup, attention turns to the opening game on 7 February 2026.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, January 24th, 2026
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