New Delhi’s cricket circles are buzzing with reactions to Bangladesh’s decision to skip events in India, but former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria remains unfazed about the T20 World Cup. In an exclusive interview, Kaneria dismissed concerns that Bangladesh’s absence would disrupt the tournament, calling it a shortsighted move that will haunt Bangladesh cricket in the long run.
Kaneria pointed to recent unrest in Bangladesh, where minorities faced violence without provocation. ‘It was disheartening to witness such brutality against innocent Hindus,’ he said. This has tarnished Bangladesh’s image in India, leading to tough calls like Kolkata Knight Riders dropping Mustafizur Rahman from their IPL 2026 squad despite prior selection.
On the World Cup front, Kaneria clarified that neither BCCI nor ICC barred Bangladesh. ‘Every ICC member gets top-notch security at global events,’ he noted. Bangladesh’s fear-driven withdrawal ignores this reality. At ICC meetings, only Pakistan backed them, underscoring that security in India isn’t an issue.
The fallout could be severe for Bangladesh. ‘Ignoring ICC advice means future repercussions, like India avoiding tours there,’ Kaneria warned. Schedules can’t be reworked last-minute, and Bangladesh’s no-show won’t dent the World Cup. Had they participated, issues like Mustafizur’s could have been resolved, opening IPL doors for more Bangladeshi stars.
Kaneria also addressed Pakistan’s support for Bangladesh and potential withdrawal risks. ‘Pakistan would suffer if replaced, just like Scotland stepping in for Bangladesh,’ he said. Emerging teams are thriving, making any slot a golden opportunity.
Shifting to broader cricket politics, Kaneria urged seniors with YouTube channels to focus on skills—Virat vs Babar, Bumrah vs Shaheen—rather than politics. ‘Keep cricket pure; mix it with politics and it loses appeal,’ he advised.
Finally, on Big Bash League drama involving Mohammad Rizwan’s retired out and Babar Azam’s denied single, Kaneria defended team-first decisions. ‘It’s common, like Tilak Varma in IPL. Babar wasn’t firing; Steve Smith prioritized the team. No need to blow it up— he’s no Viv Richards.’
Bangladesh’s choice underscores a pivotal moment in cricket diplomacy, but the World Cup marches on unscathed.
