No ICC call for Scotland yet as Bangladesh serves T20 World Cup 2026 spot ultimatum

Scotland Cricket yet to be called by ICC [Image Credits: X]

Amid the ongoing tussle between the International Cricket Council and the Bangladesh Cricket Board, Bangladesh has been given an ultimatum until January 21 to confirm its participation in the T20 World Cup 2026. During these discussions, Scotland’s name emerged as Bangladesh’s potential replacement if the latter decides not to play at Indian venues.

In recent developments, BBC Sport reported that the ICC has not yet contacted Cricket Scotland, which remains the most likely replacement as the highest-ranked team not currently part of the tournament. If Bangladesh loses its spot, Scotland would be the only team in line to fill the vacancy and would then be brought into the frame.

Scotland maintains the decorum over Bangladesh-ICC tussle

According to the report, Cricket Scotland officials are not planning to initiate talks with the ICC, as they want to maintain dignity and respect in their relationship with the Bangladesh Cricket Board.

However, it was also stated that Scotland’s players will be ready at short notice if the ICC decides to call them up.

For those unaware, Scotland failed to qualify for the tournament through the Europe Qualifiers last summer, finishing fourth in the standings, while the Netherlands and Italy secured the two available spots from the region.

Despite missing out on qualification, Scotland’s players are currently back in training. However, their preparation is not for the T20 World Cup 2026 but for an ODI tri-series against Namibia and Oman, scheduled to be played in Windhoek in March 2026.

Why Bangladesh is strict on boycotting India for T20 World Cup 2026?

Bangladesh’s participation in the T20 World Cup remains uncertain and is hanging by a thread. If the ICC eventually decides to call up Scotland, the team has indicated its willingness to travel to India for the event.

Notably, Bangladesh has cited security concerns for its players as the reason for not wanting to travel to India for the T20 World Cup 2026. Their concerns mainly stem from the rise in anti-Muslim sentiments on Indian social media following the mob lynching of a Hindu in Bangladesh.

These tensions reportedly contributed to Mustafizur Rahman’s exit from Kolkata Knight Riders and the IPL 2026. As a result, the BCB sent a formal request to the ICC, seeking exemption from playing or visiting Indian venues during the mega tournament.

In response, the ICC issued an ultimatum, making it clear that India would be the only host option, as Sri Lanka would not be available as an alternative venue.

If Bangladesh agrees to play in India, they will retain their place in the tournament. If not, Scotland will be considered as a replacement.

What is the possibility of Scotland replacing Bangladesh in the ICC event?

Is it possible for Scotland to replace Bangladesh? A similar situation occurred nearly 15 years ago, when Zimbabwe withdrew from the 2009 T20 World Cup in England for political reasons and were replaced by Scotland, who were next in line at the time.

However, with the T20 World Cup now expanded to 20 teams and qualification based on regional tournaments, the situation is far more complex. Any replacement will not be a simple or discretionary decision by the ICC.