Sri Lanka ensures safe World Cup hosting as Bangladesh withdraws, Scotland steps in
Colombo, Sri Lanka – Web Desk: Sri Lanka has finally voiced its position following the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) controversial decision to exclude Bangladesh from the T20 World Cup 2026. The island nation, hosting 20 matches from February 7 to March 8, emphasized that the safe and peaceful conduct of the tournament is its top priority.
The tournament’s marquee clash between India and Pakistan is set for February 15 in Colombo, highlighting Sri Lanka’s role as a neutral host amid regional tensions. Sri Lanka’s Sports Minister, Sunil Kumara Gamage, told international media that the government, security agencies, and cricket authorities are fully mobilized to prevent any untoward incidents. Elite commandos will provide round-the-clock protection for all teams, from airport arrivals to departures.
Pakistan had previously refused to play in India due to political tensions, prompting the ICC to relocate Pakistan’s matches to neutral venues in Sri Lanka. Similarly, Bangladesh’s request to move its matches from India citing security concerns was denied by the ICC, leading to its withdrawal. Scotland has been named as a replacement team. Pakistan has hinted at a possible boycott in solidarity with Bangladesh.
Sri Lanka Cricket Secretary Bandula Dissanayake clarified that Colombo does not wish to take sides in regional disputes. “India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh are all our friendly nations,” he said, adding that Sri Lanka remains open to hosting cricket events in the future. The country is also using the T20 World Cup to upgrade its cricket infrastructure, including new floodlights at Colombo’s Sinhalese Sports Club Stadium.
The ICC-Bangladesh dispute lasted nearly three weeks, with the cricket board citing threats from Hindu extremists and player Mustafizur Rahman’s removal from the IPL as reasons for security concerns. Despite criticism of the ICC and BCCI, the governing body upheld its decision to exclude Bangladesh, which has sparked debate in cricket circles globally.
