Dhaka: Bangladesh has decided to convey its strong stance to the ICC over security concerns over hosting its cricket matches in India. According to Sports Advisor Dr Asif Nazrul and Bangladesh Cricket Board President Aminul Islam, the response to the ICC’s recent letter will be given tonight or tomorrow.
Addressing a press conference, Dr Asif Nazrul made it clear that Bangladesh will not compromise on the security of its players and the country’s dignity under any circumstances. He said that the ICC has not taken the threats posed to Bangladeshi players in India seriously, although it is a major security issue.
He gave as an example that the Indian Cricket Board itself had informed the IPL team Kolkata Knight Riders that they could not provide full security to Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman, which is clear evidence that the situation is not conducive.
Meanwhile, a well-known cricket website has claimed that the ICC has rejected Bangladesh’s request to shift the matches to Sri Lanka and has made it clear that the matches will be held in India; otherwise, points may be deducted.
Bangladesh Cricket Board President Aminul Islam said that government permission is mandatory for any foreign tour, and the cricket board is bound by the government’s decision.
According to cricket experts, this issue is not limited to just sports but has also taken on diplomatic and security aspects. Experts say that if the ICC does not find an impartial solution, a crisis of confidence may arise in world cricket, as was seen between Pakistan and India during the Champions Trophy in the past.
