LAHORE (Kashmir English): The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday said that no financial, sporting, or administrative penalty will be imposed on the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) for quitting the ongoing T20 Cricket World Cup 2026.
The decision was taken during the “open, constructive and congenial” dialogue between the ICC, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), and Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), the ICC said in a statement.
The governing body said that the meetings covered several matters, including but not limited to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 and the broader outlook for cricket in South Asia.
“While reflecting on the Bangladesh cricket team’s unfortunate absence from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, the global governing body for cricket reaffirmed BCB’s position as a valued Full Member, with a proud cricketing history and a vital role in the growth of the global game,” the statement reads.
The ICC also reiterated its continued facilitation of growth in one of cricket’s most vibrant markets, with more than 200 million passionate fans, to ensure that the national team’s non-participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup does not have any long-term effects on Cricket in the country.
According to the ICC, regarding the current matter, it was acknowledged that “BCB retains the right to approach the Dispute Resolution Committee (DRC), should it choose to do so. This right exists under current ICC regulations and remains intact.”
“The ICC’s approach is guided by its principles of neutrality and fairness and reflects the shared objective of facilitative support rather than punishment,” it added.
Bangladesh to get hosting
Furthermore, the cricket council added that it was also agreed that Bangladesh will host an ICC event before the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2031, subject to the usual ICC hosting processes, timelines, and operational requirements.
“This reflects confidence in Bangladesh’s capability as a host and reinforces the ICC’s commitment to providing meaningful hosting opportunities across its membership to develop cricket in the country,” it added.
“The ICC, PCB and BCB, along with other Members, remain committed to continued dialogue, cooperation and constructive engagement in the best interests of the sport,” the press release stated.
“All stakeholders acknowledge that the spirit of this understanding is to protect the integrity of the game and preserve unity within the cricket fraternity.”
While, ICC Chief Executive Sanjog Gupta said that Bangladesh’s absence from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup is regrettable, but it does not alter the ICC’s enduring commitment to Bangladesh as a core cricketing nation.
“Our focus continues to be on working closely with key stakeholders, including BCB, to ensure the sport grows sustainably in the country and that future opportunities for its players and fans are strengthened.”
