Bangladesh's drama continues unabated; a second letter sent to the ICC to change World Cup venue
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) formally sent a second letter to the ICC on Thursday, clarifying its specific security concerns regarding traveling to India for the T20 World Cup and reiterating its demand to change the venue to Sri Lanka.
This controversy has deepened after Mustafizur Rahman's release from the IPL. There are also differences of opinion within the BCB on this issue.
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The World Cup is scheduled to begin on February 7, and Bangladesh is scheduled to play four matches in India (three in Kolkata and one in Mumbai). The BCB has refused to travel to India, a decision that came after fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman was released from the IPL at the behest of the BCCI.
Second letter sent to the ICC
A source associated with the BCB, speaking on condition of anonymity, told PTI, "After discussions with the Ministry of Sports advisor Asif Nazrul, the BCB has once again written to the ICC. The ICC wanted to know which areas were of concern regarding security, and the BCB has clarified them."
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However, the source did not elaborate on the details of the letter. This development comes amidst the ongoing tug-of-war between the BCB and the ICC regarding Bangladesh's participation. The International Cricket Council has so far maintained a measured silence on the issue and has sought clarity on the exact nature of the security concerns being raised by the Dhaka-based board.
BCB divided into two factions
It is also understood that there are differences of opinion within the BCB itself on this issue. One faction of the board is supporting Asif Nazrul's hardline stance on the matter, while the other group is in favor of keeping the lines of communication open with the ICC and Indian authorities.
The second faction is emphasizing the need for stringent and impenetrable security arrangements throughout the Bangladesh team's stay in India. Nazrul, who has been vocal in the past about criticizing India, is reportedly advocating for a tougher stance on this issue. This is seen as a clear departure from the traditionally cordial working relationship between the BCB and the BCCI.
Summary
Mustafizur's release from the IPL came after incidents of attacks on minorities in Bangladesh. Currently, there is no indication from the ICC that it will shift Bangladesh's matches in Kolkata and Mumbai to Colombo. However, the BCB has claimed that the ICC has shown a willingness to work with them in assessing their security concerns.
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