The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has responded to growing speculation around a possible change in venues for Bangladesh’s matches at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The reaction comes amid reports suggesting that the ICC is evaluating two alternative Indian venues for Bangladesh’s fixtures following concerns raised by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).
Reports hint at two alternative Indian venues
On Monday, several reports claimed that the ICC is exploring alternative venues within India rather than relocating Bangladesh’s matches to Sri Lanka. Chennai and Thiruvananthapuram were named as potential options, possibly replacing Kolkata and Mumbai, which are currently slated to host Bangladesh’s group-stage games.
BCCI reacts to reports of ICC’s ‘2 venues’ solution
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia stated that the Indian board remains in the dark over any proposed changes and stressed that the matter does not fall under BCCI’s authority at this stage. According to Saikia, the ICC alone is empowered to take decisions on venues for global tournaments, and the host board can act only after receiving official instructions.
He made it clear that the BCCI is proceeding strictly as per the existing tournament schedule and has not been informed about Bangladesh’s matches being moved from their designated venues. Any reports suggesting otherwise, Saikia noted, are speculative until confirmed by the ICC.
“The BCCI has not received any communication regarding the matter of shifting Bangladesh matches to Chennai or anywhere else, and it is beyond our control. It is a matter of communication between the BCB and the ICC, as the ICC is the governing body. If the ICC conveys any decision to us regarding a change of venue, the BCCI, as the host, will take the necessary steps. At present, we are not privy to any such information,” Saikia told IANS.
Bangladesh’s security concerns and ICC response
The issue surfaced after the BCB reportedly wrote to the ICC, requesting that Bangladesh’s group-stage matches be shifted out of India due to security concerns arising from diplomatic tensions in the region. Sri Lanka was cited as Bangladesh’s preferred alternative venue. In its correspondence, the BCB indicated that it had received an acknowledgment from the ICC, with assurances that the matter would be reviewed. However, no final decision has been communicated publicly by the ICC, leaving room for speculation over possible adjustments.
