World Cricketers’ Association stands by Bangladesh, slams ICC for T20 World Cup drama

WCA logo and Bangladesh Cricket Team [Source: X]

Bangladesh have found support in the International Cricketers’ Association’s statement released on Sunday. Addressing Bangladesh’s absence from the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 scheduled for February, the association stated that it was a sad moment for the game.

It added that the situation should serve as a stark reminder for all stakeholders to unite the sport rather than divide it amid growing tensions between countries, as cricket is a game built on unity.

WCA comments as Bangladesh get replaced by Scotland

For those unaware, Bangladesh were replaced by Scotland in the 20-team showpiece on Saturday after refusing to tour India, citing security concerns raised by their government.

Following weeks of back-and-forth between Bangladesh and the International Cricket Council, Scotland were brought in as replacements, leaving Bangladesh completely out of the mega event.

World Cricketers’ Association chief executive Tom Moffat raised serious questions over the ICC’s decision to remove Bangladesh without attempting to resolve the issue on neutral ground.

He expressed his disappointment over Bangladesh’s absence from the prestigious T20 World Cup and urged all stakeholders to reflect deeply on the consequences of such a removal.

"The withdrawal of Bangladesh from the T20 World Cup, and resulting absence of a valued cricketing nation from cricket's pinnacle international T20 event, is a sad moment for our sport, the Bangladesh players and fans, and one that requires deep reflection," Tom Moffat said in a statement.

"Rather than allowing division or exclusion to take hold, we call on the game’s leaders to work with all stakeholders, including Governing Bodies, leagues and players, to unite the sport, not divide it ..."

Growing tensions in Pakistan participation as well

Notably, Pakistan has also stated that it will give its final verdict on participation only after its government takes a call. This indicates that Pakistan may also consider withdrawing from the tournament, despite being offered a separate neutral venue in Sri Lanka to play all their group-stage and knockout matches.

This development further underlines the growing tension in South Asian cricket, where India’s political relations with its neighbouring countries appear to be impacting the spirit of the game.

Moffat also mentioned that the WCA is now increasingly concerned about agreements not being honoured within the sport, highlighting poor communication between governing bodies, players, and their representatives as a major issue.

"It also highlights significant issues with the game's existing operating model at global level. These issues, if continued to be left unaddressed, will weaken trust, unity, and ultimately the health and future of the game we love," he added.

Scotland ready to join T20 World Cup 2026

With Pakistan now also under scrutiny regarding its participation, the T20 World Cup 2026 risks becoming a battleground for governing bodies rather than a celebration shaped by cricketing minds.

Meanwhile, for the unaware, Scotland, Bangladesh’s replacement, have already outlined their immediate plans to travel to India, stating that they have been preparing for the upcoming tournaments and are ready to compete.

The mega tournament begins on February 7, with the ICC having released a revised schedule following Bangladesh’s withdrawal.