ICC's loss if Tigers miss WC: BCB chief

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) President Aminul Islam Bulbul believes that if Bangladesh is unable to participate in next month’s Twenty20 World Cup, the International Cricket Council (ICC) itself will feel remorseful.

He asserted that Bangladesh would continue their struggle to ensure they play the tournament in Sri Lanka.

Following a meeting with the cricketers, Sports Advisor Asif Nazrul addressed the media to reiterate the country's firm stance, with Aminul standing alongside him.

After the advisor's departure, the BCB president gave a detailed address, outlining recent developments, the rationale behind their demands, and other issues.

There had been an ICC meeting on Wednesday, after which communication began following Mustafizur Rahman’s removal from an IPL team, he said.

“Mustafizur was not injured, did not withdraw his name, and the Bangladesh Cricket Board did not revoke his no-objection certificate (NOC). He was dropped solely due to security concerns.”

Aminul said the BCB learnt of the issue through the government and realised security had become a major concern for the tournament.

“Upon learning this, we immediately contacted the ICC. On Jan 4, we informed them of the situation, requested an alternative venue, and urged them to treat the matter with utmost gravity.”

He added that the BCB would again explain to the ICC what other options were available.

“In a situation where Bangladesh might not play, or has been issued an ultimatum, we will continue to exhaust every effort. If a cricket-loving nation like Bangladesh is absent, it would be a significant loss for the ICC.

“With cricket expanding, joining the Olympics in 2028, Brisbane hosting in 2032, and India bidding for the 2036 Olympics and Commonwealth Games, the absence of such a major cricketing nation can only be seen as a failure on the host nation’s part.”