T20 World Cup: No penalty or sanction for BCB, says ICC

Dubai: The International Cricket Council has formally ruled out any punitive action against the Bangladesh Cricket Board after the Tigers missed qualification for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, insisting the development will carry “no financial, sporting, or administrative sanctions” and leaving the door open for Dhaka to pursue further recourse through the Dispute Resolution Committee.

In a statement released after a series of meetings that also involved the Pakistan Cricket Board, the ICC said talks had been “constructive and open,” centring on the upcoming global tournament and the wider expansion of cricket across South Asia. While acknowledging the “disappointment surrounding Bangladesh’s absence,” the governing body reaffirmed the BCB’s standing as “a valued Full Member” and praised the country’s “rich cricketing heritage” as well as its 200-million-strong fanbase.

ICC Chief Executive Sanjog Gupta underlined that the setback would not diminish Bangladesh’s long-term role in the sport. “Bangladesh’s absence from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup is regrettable, but it does not alter our commitment to the country as a core cricketing nation,” Gupta said. “We remain focused on growing the sport sustainably in Bangladesh, creating opportunities for players and fans, and investing in its long-term competitiveness and global integration.”

Beyond the immediate ruling, the ICC confirmed that Bangladesh will be awarded an international event between 2028 and 2031, provided standard hosting criteria are met. The move is designed to distribute marquee fixtures more evenly among Full Members and signals confidence in the nation’s organisational capabilities.

All parties reiterated a shared dedication to “dialogue, cooperation, and constructive engagement,” stressing unity and integrity within the global cricket community.