Bangladesh Boycott T20 World Cup 2026: The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has taken an unexpected turn after Bangladesh officially decided to boycott the tournament, triggering one of the most controversial episodes in recent cricket history.
With the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) refusing to send its team to India over safety concerns, the focus has now shifted to a key question: who will replace Bangladesh in the 20-team World Cup?
Why Did Bangladesh Withdraw From the T20 World Cup 2026?
The BCB had consistently maintained that it would not travel to India for its T20 World Cup matches, citing concerns over player safety and security amid strained diplomatic relations between India and Bangladesh.
Tensions reportedly escalated after the BCCI asked IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders to release Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from their squad. This decision followed a deterioration in bilateral relations after reports of violent incidents targeting minority communities in Bangladesh.
Despite multiple attempts by the International Cricket Council (ICC) to resolve the situation—including face-to-face discussions and a delegation sent to Bangladesh—the BCB remained firm. When the ICC made it clear that refusal to travel to India would lead to disqualification, Bangladesh chose to boycott the tournament entirely.
ICC Left With No Option but to Replace Bangladesh
Once Bangladesh confirmed their withdrawal, the ICC had to act swiftly to protect the integrity and schedule of the tournament. According to ICC tournament regulations, any team that withdraws after qualification is replaced by the next highest-ranked team in the ICC T20I rankings that has not already qualified.
This rule has placed one team firmly at the top of the replacement list.
Scotland Set to Replace Bangladesh
Based on the current ICC T20I rankings, Scotland are the strongest and most logical candidates to replace Bangladesh.
- Scotland are ranked 13th in the ICC Men’s T20I rankings
- They failed to qualify directly for the T20 World Cup 2026
- No higher-ranked non-qualified team is available
As a result, Scotland are widely expected to step in. If confirmed, they will join England, West Indies, Italy, and Nepal in Group C, potentially adding a fresh competitive edge to the group.
Have Scotland Been Contacted by the ICC?
As of now, there has been no official communication from the ICC to Cricket Scotland.
According to reports from the BBC, Scotland’s board and players are prepared to accept the invitation if it comes. However, Cricket Scotland has deliberately avoided making public demands or lobbying for inclusion, choosing instead to respect the circumstances surrounding Bangladesh’s withdrawal.
This restrained approach has been viewed positively within cricketing circles.
No Special Requests From Scotland
Should they be invited, Scotland are not expected to request changes to venues, groups, or match schedules. Reports suggest that Cricket Scotland will accept the tournament structure as it stands, without seeking special concessions.
This stance contrasts with Bangladesh’s earlier proposal to swap groups with Ireland—a request that ultimately went nowhere.
What Happened to Bangladesh’s Group-Swap Proposal?
Before confirming their boycott, the BCB had reportedly suggested swapping groups with Ireland, as Ireland are scheduled to play all their T20 World Cup matches in Sri Lanka.
However, that proposal was never formally accepted. According to BBC sources, Cricket Ireland were not informed of any such plan and continue to prepare according to the original World Cup schedule.
With no compromise reached, Bangladesh proceeded with their withdrawal.
What Does This Mean for the T20 World Cup 2026?
Bangladesh’s absence will undoubtedly impact the tournament, both competitively and commercially. However, Scotland’s inclusion could be a major boost for Associate cricket, offering them a rare opportunity on the global stage.
For the ICC, the episode highlights ongoing challenges around governance, security assurances, and balancing politics with sport.
Final Word
The Bangladesh boycott has reshaped the narrative of the T20 World Cup 2026 before a single ball has been bowled. While controversy surrounds their exit, the spotlight now turns to Scotland, who may soon find themselves playing cricket’s biggest tournament.
An official ICC announcement is expected soon. Until then, the cricketing world waits—watching how one of the most dramatic World Cup build-ups in history unfolds.