With tensions simmering between the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and the International Cricket Council (ICC), former India pacer Madan Lal on Thursday told India Today that Pakistan is behind Bangladesh's refusal to come to India. He also dismissed Bangladesh's claims of security threats to its players in India.
Notably, Bangladesh could be kicked out of the T20 World Cup 2026 after refusing to abide by the ICC ultimatum to confirm its participation. The BCB had earlier requested that the ICC change the venue, citing player security concerns and rising political tensions with India.
However, the ICC rejected the request so close to the tournament and gave Bangladesh time until 22 January to decide.
In response, the BCB accused the ICC of double standards, pointing out that India was allowed to play at a neutral venue during the 2025 Champions Trophy. Bangladesh now risks being replaced in the upcoming tournament, with Scotland seen as a possible replacement.
Pakistan behind Bangladesh's refusal to come to India
“I think it's foolish, I can say that because India is not going to lose anything. Bangladesh is going to lose everything because not participating in such a big tournament, from the commercial point of view, Bangladesh is going to be quite a loss,” Lal said.
"I think it's Pakistan instigating them not to participate in this tournament. They just want to bring India down," he added.
On security concerns, Lal said Mumbai is one of the safest cities in India. He also claimed that Pakistan and Bangladesh are playing politics to let India down.
"They are playing in Mumbai, and it is one of the safest places in India. It doesn't make any difference to the Indian board or anything, but I think it's all politics, Pakistan and Bangladesh playing their part very strongly because they want to let India down, and that's the thing," Lal added.
In a separate interaction with PTI, Lal said the decision not to come to India is not good for Bangladesh cricket or its players.
“This decision will hurt Bangladesh in the long run. Avoiding India is a major loss, while the game will continue with other teams playing. Overall, this is not good for Bangladesh cricket,” he added.
