Bangladesh Requests ICC Group Swap with Ireland, Proposes Sri Lanka for T20 World Cup Venues

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) to exchange its national team with Ireland, allowing Bangladesh to compete in Group B in Sri Lanka instead of Group C in India for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Currently, Bangladesh is positioned in Group C with teams like the West Indies, Italy, England, and Nepal, with scheduled matches in Kolkata and Mumbai. Ireland, in Group B, will face Sri Lanka, Australia, Oman, and Zimbabwe in Colombo and Pallekele.

In an effort to address this request, two ICC officials, Gaurav Saxena (via video conferencing due to visa issues) and Andrew Ephgrave, met with BCB representatives in Dhaka. The BCB emphasized their concerns about safety and security, echoing the Bangladeshi government’s stance. Key BCB figures, including President Mohammad Aminul Islam and Vice Presidents Md Shakawath Hossain and Faruque Ahmed, attended the meeting.

Despite BCB’s insistence, the ICC is hesitant to accommodate the request due to scheduling complexities and potential disruption to the tournament. The security concerns were heightened after Bangladeshi player Mustafizur Rahman had his IPL contract unexpectedly terminated. The BCB remains hopeful for continued dialogue with the ICC to resolve the issue amicably, considering moving Bangladesh to a different group to minimize logistical challenges. The discussions have been described as open and professional, with both parties committed to further constructive dialogue.

Published on January 17, 2026.