Najmul Hossain Shanto on T20 World Cup (Source:X)
The ongoing standoff between the ICC and the BCB over Bangladesh’s participation in the 2026 T20 World Cup in India has now stretched for over the month, with no clear resolution in sight.
While the board remains firm on its decision not to travel to India, Bangladesh players have finally spoken out, making it clear that they want to play in the marquee tournament.
Why does Bangladesh not want to travel to India for the T20 World Cup?
Tensions between the two countries escalated in December following the lynching of Dipu Chandra Das, a Hindu factory worker in Bangladesh. The incident sparked strong reactions in India and widespread anger on social media.
In response, several religious group leaders in India reportedly called for a boycott of Bangladeshi interests, further worsening the atmosphere between the two nations.
Cricket relations also took a hit when KKR released Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from their squad ahead of IPL 2026. The move caused an uproar back home, with the BCB feeling disrespected and seeking clarification from the BCCI.
Amid these developments, Bangladesh made it clear to the ICC that they are unwilling to travel to India for the T20 World Cup.
Najmul Shanto breaks silence amid BCB deadlock
Amid the uncertainty, Bangladesh star batter Najmul Hossain Shanto broke his silence on Tuesday, stating that the players are keen to take part in the T20 World Cup 2026, even though they remain largely unaware of the board’s internal discussions.
Speaking to the media, Shanto said there had been no formal conversation on the matter within the CWAB.
He also stressed the importance of World Cups in a cricketer's career and explained why players see the tournament as a rare opportunity.
“As cricketers, we always want to play,” he said. “And when it’s an event like the World Cup, of course we want to be there. These tournaments don’t come often. World Cups are rare, especially the 50-over format which comes every four years. I see it as a big opportunity for us to play good cricket.”
While admitting that he is not fully aware of what is happening within the BCB, Shanto made it clear that the players' position is unchanged.
“I don’t really know what is happening internally, so it’s difficult for me to comment. But as players, we definitely want to play,” he added.
“There are many issues involved, and I don’t personally know everything in detail,” he said. “But I believe if these matters are resolved properly and if we get the opportunity, Inshallah it will be very good for the players to take part in the World Cup.”
However, Shanto acknowledged that the final decision lies with the board, which is expected to officially announce its stance on Wednesday.
Litton Das on Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup 2026 dilemma
Earlier, Litton Das also expressed concern over the lack of communication from the BCB. Speaking on the sidelines of the ongoing BPL, Litton said the players have not been kept informed about the country’s participation in the T20 World Cup.
With the ICC waiting for clarity and players eager to compete, all now depends are on the BCB's official announcement regarding Bangladesh’s participation in the T20 World Cup 2026.
