Pakistan says ready to host Bangladesh T20 World Cup matches 

Following Bangladesh cricket team’s refusal to play T20 World Cup matches in India, Pakistan has expressed interest in hosting the event’s matches featuring Bangladesh, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Sunday.

Quoting its sources, 24News TV channel reported that Pakistan had said that if venues in Sri Lanka were not ready to host these matches at such a short notice, it was ready to host matches, and that its all venues were ready for the purpose.

Bangladesh decided not play their T20 WC matches in India after its cricketer Mustafizur Rahman was released by his Indian Premier League (IPL) team amid growing tensions between the countries.

Last week, Kolkata Knight Riders said they had released the Bangladesh bowler after being told to do so by India’s cricket board (BCCI).

Bangladesh were scheduled to play three T20 World Cup matches in Kolkata next month, with the February 7-March 8 tournament being co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), after an emergency meeting held last Sunday, said it had “formally requested” the ICC to shift its team’s games to Sri Lanka.

“The Board of Directors resolved that the Bangladesh National Team will not travel to India for the tournament under the current conditions,” a BCB statement read.

It said its decision was made due to “growing concerns regarding the safety and security” of its players, and based on its government’s advice.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is still to decide whether the matches featuring Bangladesh will be shifted to a neutral venue or not.

ICC chief to brief BCCI

The 24NewsHD TV channel reported that the dispute over Bangladesh’s refusal to play their World Cup matches in India has prompted high-level discussions, with ICC Chairman Jay Shah scheduled to meet Indian cricket board officials today.

According to Indian media, Jay Shah will brief BCCI officials on the concerns raised by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). The BCB has reportedly expressed strong reservations about playing in India due to security concerns.

Jay Shah is also expected to meet BCB President Aminul Islam to further discuss the matter. Sources say issues like security threats and the removal of Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman from the IPL will also come under discussion.

Bangladesh has formally requested the ICC to shift its World Cup matches to Sri Lanka, citing multiple concerns.

Reporters: Waseem Ahmad and Mumtaz Shigri