Dhaka, Jan 09 (V7N) — The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has once again written to the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Thursday, outlining its concerns about security issues related to playing World Cup matches in India. The letter was sent following a meeting between BCB officials and Sports Adviser Asif Nazrul.

According to BCB Cricket Operations Chairman Nazmul Abedeen Fahim, the board has clearly explained the specific areas of concern regarding security. He said the ICC has been requested to review the matter within its regulatory framework and respond accordingly. Fahim stated that Bangladesh’s request is justified and lawful, expressing hope that the ICC will take appropriate steps after due consideration.

The issue has emerged against the backdrop of strained diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and India. BCB has taken a firm stance against sending the national team to India, particularly after pacer Mustafizur Rahman was excluded from the Indian Premier League. At the same time, Bangladesh has reportedly limited the issuance of tourist visas for Indian citizens from its deputy high commissions in Kolkata, Mumbai, and Chennai. Any retaliatory measures from India could further complicate Bangladesh’s participation in the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

Sources said the BCB’s letter to the ICC goes beyond the safety of players and team officials, stressing the security of Bangladeshi supporters traveling from Bangladesh to watch World Cup matches. Ensuring the safety of large numbers of visiting spectators is considered a complex and challenging responsibility for any tournament host.

In this context, discussions have emerged around a potential hybrid model, under which Bangladesh’s matches could be hosted in Sri Lanka as a co-host venue. Such a move, however, could raise political and image-related concerns for India, with domestic critics potentially portraying it as a setback for the Indian government. As a result, observers believe the ICC, under Chairman Jay Shah’s leadership, will carefully weigh all implications before accepting or rejecting Bangladesh’s request.

Former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal has offered a more cautious perspective, suggesting that the BCB could have approached the situation with broader long-term considerations. Speaking to journalists on Thursday at the inauguration of the Zia Inter-University Cricket Tournament, Tamim said decisions of this nature should be made through dialogue and collective discussion rather than immediate reactions. He emphasized that Bangladesh’s position in world cricket and the country’s future interests should guide such decisions.

The ICC is yet to issue an official response, while uncertainty continues to surround Bangladesh’s participation and match venues for the upcoming World Cup.

END/AJ/SMA/