The dispute between the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and the International Cricket Council (ICC) over the upcoming T20 World Cup is set to intensify, with reports suggesting that the BCB is preparing to formally challenge the ICC’s decision through its Dispute Resolution Committee. The move comes after the ICC rejected Bangladesh’s earlier request, pushing the matter closer to an arbitration-level confrontation.
With the ICC’s 24-hour deadline for compliance now expired, the governing body is expected to move ahead with contingency plans. Sources indicate that Scotland is likely to replace Bangladesh in the tournament if the standoff remains unresolved. The ICC board has already voted on the issue, leaving little room for a last-minute change in stance.
Despite the growing uncertainty, BCB president Aminul Islam has spoken of the possibility of a “last-minute miracle.” However, insiders believe that once a board-level decision has been taken by the ICC, reversals are extremely rare. This has prompted Bangladesh to explore formal dispute mechanisms rather than informal negotiations.
Former India captain Mohammed Azharuddin has weighed in on the controversy, dismissing concerns related to security and scheduling. He said that international cricket has continued smoothly without complaints from visiting teams and stressed that refusing to participate would ultimately harm Bangladesh and its players. Azharuddin also noted that shifting World Cup matches at such a late stage would be highly impractical, given that schedules and logistics are already locked in.
By considering an appeal to the ICC’s Dispute Resolution Committee, the BCB is taking a significant step. The DRC functions as an independent arbitration panel that handles disputes between the ICC and its member boards. Operating confidentially under English law, with proceedings usually seated in London, the committee delivers rulings that are final and binding.
This move signals that Bangladesh is no longer simply lobbying for adjustments but is formally contesting the ICC’s decision-making process itself. While the arbitration route could prolong uncertainty around Bangladesh’s participation, ICC officials are believed to be confident in their position.
As the situation develops, Bangladesh’s place in the T20 World Cup hangs in the balance, while Scotland remains on standby. The coming days are expected to be crucial in determining whether the dispute ends at the arbitration table or results in a confirmed change to the tournament lineup.