Bangladesh’s Absence From T20 World Cup a Sad Moment for Cricket, Players’ Body Says

The Kabul Tribune (KT) — The absence of Bangladesh from next month’s T20 World Cup is a sad moment for the sport and highlights growing divisions in international cricket, the International Cricketers’ Association has said, according to a report by Pakistan’s Dawn newspaper.
Bangladesh were replaced by Scotland in the 20-team tournament after refusing to tour India over security concerns amid strained political relations between the two countries, Dawn reported. The International Cricket Council (ICC) rejected Bangladesh’s request to move their matches to co-host Sri Lanka, saying it was not feasible to alter the schedule so close to the tournament’s Feb. 7 start.
World Cricketers’ Association Chief Executive Tom Moffat said the withdrawal of Bangladesh from cricket’s premier international T20 event required “deep reflection,” calling on the game’s leaders to work toward unity rather than division.
The developments have underscored ongoing tensions in South Asian cricket. Dawn noted that India’s refusal to tour Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy led the ICC to adopt a “hybrid model,” allowing India to play its matches at a neutral venue in Dubai. Under a similar arrangement, Pakistan are scheduled to play their matches at the upcoming T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka, though their participation has yet to be fully confirmed.
Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi criticized the ICC’s handling of the situation, calling it inconsistent and unfair, while former batsman Mohammad Yousaf echoed concerns over double standards in global cricket governance, Dawn reported.
The controversy has renewed debate over fairness, consistency and political influence in international cricket, as players’ representatives warn that unresolved issues could weaken trust and the future of the sport.