The International Cricket Council on Monday said it had concluded positive and constructive talks with the Pakistan Cricket Board and Bangladesh Cricket Board, addressing key issues including the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 and the future of cricket in South Asia.
In an official media release, the International Cricket Council said it held open, constructive and congenial discussions with the Pakistan Cricket Board and the Bangladesh Cricket Board.
The dialogue covered several matters, including but not limited to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 and the broader outlook for cricket across South Asia.
Regret over Bangladesh’s absence
While reflecting on Bangladesh’s non-participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, the ICC described the absence as regrettable. However, it strongly reaffirmed BCB’s status as a valued Full Member with a proud cricketing history and a vital role in the growth of the global game.
The ICC said Bangladesh remains one of cricket’s most vibrant markets, with more than 200 million passionate fans.
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The ICC assured that Bangladesh’s absence from the tournament would not have any long-term effects on cricket in the country. It reiterated its continued commitment to facilitating growth, development, competitiveness, and global integration of Bangladesh cricket.
The council emphasized that short-term disruptions would not define Bangladesh’s standing in international cricket.
No penalties or sanctions on BCB
The ICC confirmed that no financial, sporting, or administrative sanctions would be imposed on the Bangladesh Cricket Board in relation to the current matter. It said this approach was guided by principles of neutrality, fairness, and facilitative support rather than punishment.
The ICC also clarified that BCB retains the right to approach the Dispute Resolution Committee (DRC) under existing ICC regulations, should it choose to do so.
Bangladesh to host ICC event before 2031
As part of the understanding reached during the dialogue, it was agreed that Bangladesh will host an ICC event between 2028 and 2031, before the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2031. The hosting will remain subject to standard ICC processes, timelines, and operational requirements.
The ICC said the decision reflects confidence in Bangladesh’s hosting capabilities and reinforces its commitment to spreading major events across member nations.
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The ICC, PCB, and BCB reaffirmed their commitment to continued dialogue, cooperation, and constructive engagement in the best interests of the sport. All stakeholders agreed that protecting the integrity of cricket and preserving unity within the global cricket fraternity remains the shared objective.
The ICC noted that the understanding does not alter or detract from its constitutional autonomy, governance framework, or established decision-making processes.
ICC chief executive’s remarks
ICC Chief Executive Sanjog Gupta said Bangladesh’s absence from the T20 World Cup was unfortunate but did not change the ICC’s long-term commitment to the country.
“Bangladesh remains a priority cricket ecosystem deserving of long-term investment in its development, competitiveness and global integration, and is not defined by short-term disruptions,” he said.
