DUBAI: In one of the most significant administrative rulings in recent cricket history, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced on Sunday that Bangladesh has been removed from the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The decision follows a prolonged standoff regarding government interference in the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), which the ICC deemed a breach of its core obligations as a Full Member.
Why Was Bangladesh Removed? The ICC Board, after an emergency meeting in Dubai, concluded that the BCB had failed to operate as an autonomous body free from political influence. While warnings had been issued previously, recent developments in Dhaka seemingly forced the ICC’s hand. The suspension of the board means that the national team is ineligible to participate in ICC-sanctioned global events until the suspension is lifted.
“The ICC Board has determined that the Bangladesh Cricket Board is currently in breach of Article 2.4 of the ICC Constitution,” the official statement read. “Consequently, the team cannot participate in the upcoming World Cup.”
Scotland Gets the Call The beneficiary of this chaotic situation is Scotland. As the highest-ranked team in the qualifiers that initially missed the cut, Scotland has been formally invited to take Bangladesh’s spot in the group stages. This marks a dramatic turn of events for the Scottish side, who had previously expressed heartbreak after narrowly missing qualification.
Implications for the Tournament The removal of a major Asian Full Member changes the commercial and competitive landscape of the tournament. Bangladesh, known for its passionate fanbase, brings significant viewership numbers. Their absence will likely impact ticket sales and broadcast revenue in the sub-continent. Conversely, this provides a massive platform for Associate cricket, with Scotland now getting a chance to compete against the world’s best on the biggest stage.
The schedule remains largely unchanged, with Scotland simply slotting into Bangladesh’s designated fixtures. However, the emotional toll on Bangladeshi players and fans is expected to be immense, with protests already reported outside the BCB headquarters in Dhaka.
