DHAKA: Bangladesh is considering relocating its scheduled T20 World Cup matches from India to Sri Lanka following threats against fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman and his subsequent release from the Indian Premier League (IPL).
According to Bangladeshi media, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has decided to hold urgent consultations to review the situation, including the circumstances surrounding Mustafizur’s release under pressure from extremist groups.
BCB President Aminul Islam stated that while an immediate board meeting is not possible, consultations are underway with relevant departments, stressing that the safety and security of players remains the top priority.
Reports further suggest that the BCB will engage with the ICC to seek firm security assurances for the T20 World Cup, while also keeping Sri Lanka as an alternative venue.
It is pertinent to note that the ICC T20 World Cup is scheduled to begin on 7 February in India and Sri Lanka, with Bangladesh placed in Group C and most of its matches currently scheduled in Kolkata and Mumbai.
The tensions between the two countries erupted after the killing of the leader of Students Movement Usman Bin Hadi on 12th December 2025.
The protests erupted across Bangladesh as the people alleged India of backing the assassination of Usman Hadi who was the key figure who overturned Shekh Hasina Wajed, former Bangladesh Prime Minister’s government.
The protestors demanded handing over of not only Sheikh Hasina Wajed , but also of the shooters who killed Usman Hadi.
India also alleged that several Hindu people were brutally killed in Bangladesh during the protests .
