New Delhi, Jan 24: Scotland is set to compete in the T20 World Cup group stages in India next month, taking the spot originally held by Bangladesh. The International Cricket Council moved to fill the vacancy after the Bangladesh Cricket Board declined to travel across the border, citing safety worries that persisted despite multiple rounds of negotiation.
The transition was prompted by a missed deadline on Friday. ICC leadership, operating out of Dubai, communicated the change to the BCB leadership after the 24-hour ultimatum for a travel commitment expired without a formal affirmative response.
“BCB did a press conference in Dhaka before officially intimating the global body, which is a violation of protocol. They have been categorically told that they are being replaced,” an ICC official mentioned when discussing the breakdown in communication between the two boards.
The dispute over travel safety reportedly centered on the treatment of Bangladeshi players in domestic Indian leagues, specifically Mustafizur Rahman. Even though the ICC provided security guarantees for the duration of the world event, government advisors in Bangladesh recommended the team stay home.
Under the revised plan, Scotland will play the bulk of their matches in Kolkata. Their schedule begins with a high-stakes encounter against the West Indies on February 7. They will then face Italy two days later, followed by a Valentines’ Day clash with England.
The Scottish team will conclude their initial league phase with a trip to Mumbai. They are slated to face Nepal on February 17. The ICC noted that the swift replacement ensures the broadcast and logistical schedules for the tournament remain on track for the February start.
