Will Bangladesh Pull Out of T20 World Cup 2026?, Mehidy Hasan Miraz Slams Shocking Claims
The cricket world is abuzz with excitement surrounding the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in India in February 2026. However, even before the tournament begins, reports of controversy are emerging from the Bangladeshi camp. Security concerns, political tensions, and infighting within the board have raised a major question: Will Bangladesh withdraw from the T20 World Cup?
A statement by Nazrul Islam, the former chairman of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) finance committee, has added fuel to the fire, drawing a strong response from star all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz.
The Beginning of the Controversy: Najmul Islam’s Warning of ‘Financial Loss’
Najmul Islam, recently dismissed from the BCB, made a shocking claim. He suggested that if Bangladesh withdraws from the World Cup in India due to security or political reasons, the players could face significant financial losses. His statement is being seen as an attempt to pressure the players.
Mehidy Hasan Miraz’s Counterattack: “This Statement is Shameful”
Responding to Najmul Islam’s comments, Bangladeshi all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz expressed his displeasure at a press conference. Miraz called the statement not only incorrect but also “shameful.”
Key Points from Miraz’s Response:
- Source of Income: Players’ earnings come from the cricket board, the ICC, and sponsors, not directly from the government.
- Contribution: The funds the board has today are a result of the hard work of the players who have worn the Bangladesh jersey.
- Taxpayers: Miraz clarified that players pay 25-30 percent of their earnings as tax to the government. It is wrong to say that the government gives them money.
“If there are no matches, sponsors won’t come, and we won’t get revenue from the ICC. Making such statements is completely inappropriate for someone holding a responsible position.” — Mehidy Hasan Miraz
Why are questions being raised about withdrawal?
Three main reasons are being cited behind the uncertainty surrounding Bangladesh’s participation:
- Security and political tensions: Due to the recent change of power in Bangladesh and the fluctuations in diplomatic relations with India, the board is feeling ‘uncomfortable’ about the trip.
- Mustafizur Rahman’s case: The release of Mustafizur Rahman by the IPL franchise KKR is also being linked to this tension in some circles.
- Lack of official decision: The BCB has not yet given its final approval regarding participation in the World Cup.
T20 World Cup 2026: Bangladesh’s Schedule
T20 World Cup 2026: Bangladesh’s Proposed Schedule
Despite the tensions, according to the ICC schedule, Bangladesh is scheduled to play its initial matches in Kolkata:
| Date | Opponent | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| February 7 | West Indies | Eden Gardens, Kolkata |
| February 9 | Italy | Eden Gardens, Kolkata |
| February 14 | England | Eden Gardens, Kolkata |
| February 17 | Nepal | Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai |
Conclusion: What will happen next?
Mehidy Hasan Miraz’s statement has made it clear that the players are ready to take the field and play, and they do not want to be victims of board politics. However, the final decision rests with the Bangladesh Cricket Board and the government. If Bangladesh withdraws from this mega-event, it will be a major blow not only to their players but also to world cricket.
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