Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 05:14pm on 12 Jan 2026,Monday Sports
Bangladesh's Sports Advisor Asif Nazrul reiterated his country won't play 2026 T20 World Cup matches in India, suggesting Pakistan, Sri Lanka, or UAE as alternative venues. Responding to reports about BCCI proposing different Indian states and Pakistan Cricket Board's hosting interest, Nazrul stated "India means India," refusing any venue within the country. The controversy emerged after BCCI directed Kolkata Knight Riders to release Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman amid rising anti-Bangladesh sentiment in India over reported attacks on Hindu minorities. Bangladesh Cricket Board wrote twice to ICC requesting venue changes, though the world body reportedly rejected initial requests. Nazrul emphasized Bangladesh won't compromise on this issue while awaiting ICC's response. (PC: News 18)
