The possibility of bringing Bangladesh back in the T20 World Cup

The build-up to the forthcoming ICC T20 World Cup has already been marked by drama, with Bangladesh potentially poised for a late return to the tournament. The International Cricket Council (ICC) is reportedly reconsidering its earlier decision to exclude Bangladesh from the competition.

According to a report by Indian media outlet Anandabazar on Tuesday, 27 January, if Pakistan opts to withdraw from the World Cup, Bangladesh could be offered a spot in their place. An ICC official indicated that, should Pakistan pull out, Bangladesh would likely be placed in Group A, with all of their matches scheduled in Sri Lanka. This arrangement would simplify logistics, a key concern for the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).

Earlier developments set the stage for the current uncertainty. On 24 January, the ICC announced a revised schedule, replacing Bangladesh with Scotland. That same day, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi publicly criticised the ICC’s decision, arguing that Bangladesh had been treated unfairly. Bangladesh had reportedly requested that their matches be moved from India to Sri Lanka, a proposal that was rejected by the ICC, ultimately resulting in their exclusion from the tournament.

Following Bangladesh’s elimination, Naqvi suggested that, if directed by the government, Pakistan could choose not to participate. Recent reports from Pakistani media indicate that the country may selectively boycott matches against India, though no final decision has been made. A meeting between Naqvi and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is said to have kept all options open, with a final decision expected on Friday or the following Monday.

Under ICC regulations, should a team withdraw from the World Cup, the next highest-ranked team is offered a place. As per the latest T20 rankings, Pakistan occupies 7th place, while Bangladesh is ranked 9th. Scotland, who replaced Bangladesh earlier, were ranked 14th at the time. This system increases the likelihood of Bangladesh being called up if Pakistan steps aside.

Current Scenario and T20 Rankings

If Pakistan withdraws at the last minute, Bangladesh may be reinstated, with their matches hosted in Sri Lanka, as originally requested. Cricket fans and administrators alike are now waiting for the ICC’s final ruling, which could dramatically reshape the tournament lineup in the coming days.