The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Saturday confirmed that Scotland will replace Bangladesh in the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which is scheduled to commence on February 7. The latest move brings an end to weeks of uncertainty and behind-the-scenes negotiations. The decision follows Bangladesh’s continued refusal to send their team to India, the host nation of the tournament, citing security concerns and a lack of government clearance.
“An e-mail was sent last evening to the Bangladesh Cricket Board chairman, intimating him that his board didn't get back to the ICC officially after the 24-hour deadline that was given to them to decide if they wanted to come to India, so a decision has been taken,” an ICC source told PTI on conditions of anonymity.
“The BCB did a press conference in Dhaka before officially intimating the global body which is a violation of protocol. They have been categorically told that they are being replaced," the source added.
Scotland’s inclusion was determined on the basis of ICC rankings, with the governing body stating that the selection process strictly followed established qualification criteria. Scotland have previously appeared in six of the nine editions of the T20 World Cup. Scotland will be drawn in Group C alongside Italy, Nepal, West Indies, and England.
Tensions had escalated following a request from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to Kolkata Knight Riders, asking the franchise to release Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman for the IPL 2026 season. Bangladesh’s exclusion from the tournament is a major setback for them, as they have been a regular presence in ICC global events.