‘Stance unchanged’ as BCB awaits ICC reply

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president Aminul Islam Bulbul reiterated that the board will remain steadfast on its stance over the security of the Bangladesh contingent for the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in India and Sri Lanka from February 7.

Speaking at a school cricket event at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Saturday evening, Bulbul said the board is yet to receive any reply from International Cricket Council (ICC) and is awaiting guidance, expected by Monday or thereafter.

“We haven’t received any response yet [after a letter to ICC was submitted on Thursday]. We have provided all the links, attachments, and information requested. We are now waiting to see what ICC advises,” Bulbul said.

On the question of whether Bangladesh would consider playing at an alternate venue in India, he stressed that the decision ultimately rests with the government.

“Another venue in India is still an Indian venue. The venue itself doesn’t matter. But we are not making this decision on our own -- it is a government matter. Our earlier stance remains unchanged.”

Asked whether the team would participate if the schedule could not be shifted from India, Bulbul said, “At this moment, I cannot say anything until we receive the letter.”

He also ruled out reports of Bangladesh quick Mustafizur Rahman receiving unofficial offers for a return in Indian Premier League, calling them “completely fake news.”

According to Indian media outlet NDTV Sports, ICC chairman Jay Shah will meet officials of Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in Vadodara on Sunday to resolve Bangladesh’s reluctance to travel to India.