Dhaka is buzzing with discontent as the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) grapples with the fallout from boycotting the 2026 T20 World Cup. What started as hushed criticisms from players is now escalating into open backlash against the board’s controversial decision.
Former BCB Secretary and ex-Asian Cricket Council executive Syed Ashraful Haq has sounded the alarm, branding the current board as a potential troublemaker in global cricket circles. He slammed the board’s subservience to a fleeting government, warning of dire long-term consequences for Bangladesh’s standing in the sport.
“It’s heartbreaking that the board bowed to a government that’s on its way out,” Haq stated emphatically. “This move to sideline Bangladesh from the World Cup will isolate us from the international cricket community. We’ll be seen as disruptors, and our players’ lifelong dreams are shattered.”
Haq emphasized that a self-respecting board would have consulted players on ICC security protocols, letting them decide rather than government dictates. Instead, the BCB held a meeting with players citing security fears, then pulled out, claiming ICC ignored their concerns.
The ICC has firmly rejected Bangladesh’s plea to shift matches to Sri Lanka, insisting no credible threats exist in India. The tournament schedule remains unchanged, with Scotland potentially replacing Bangladesh. As criticism mounts at home, the BCB’s gamble could redefine Bangladesh cricket’s future trajectory.