A seismic change grips the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 as Scotland officially supplants Bangladesh in Group C, confirmed by the council on Saturday after exhaustive deliberations. This development follows BCB’s venue relocation bid, rejected due to ironclad security validations.
Scotland, the subsequent top qualifier, integrates into a formidable group with England, Italy, Nepal, and West Indies. Fixtures are set: February 7 versus West Indies, February 9 against Italy, February 14 showdown with England at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens, and February 17 finale versus Nepal in Mumbai.
Bangladesh cited player safety—tied to Mustafizur Rahman’s IPL 2026 release—prompting requests for Sri Lankan hosting. Yet, ICC’s multi-layered probes, consulting specialists and outlining fortified protocols across jurisdictions, affirmed zero credible dangers.
Chairman Jay Shah oversaw Friday’s Dubai summit, wrapping three-plus weeks of constructive BCB dialogues via calls and meetings. Post-Wednesday review, a 24-hour confirmation window elapsed without affirmation, triggering Scotland’s induction per governance rules.
The outcome preserves the February 7 launch intact, emphasizing logistical prudence. Cricket’s global stage gains a plucky contender in Scotland, whose near-miss qualification now yields prime-time glory. This episode spotlights ICC’s resolve, blending diplomacy with decisiveness for a seamless mega-event.