Whether Bangladesh's cricket team will tour India has not yet been decided. However, a recent statement by Bangladesh's Sports advisor, Asif Nazrul, has generated controversy. The advisor claimed that the ICC's security team allegedly advised the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) that the inclusion of Mustafizur Rahman in the tour could create significant security risks for the team. Many observers have questioned the accuracy and reasonableness of this claim.
Disputed claims from Bangladesh
The Sports advisor further stated that if Bangladeshi fans attend matches wearing team jerseys, it could increase security concerns. He also noted that the upcoming national elections in Bangladesh could further heighten risks. According to him, the ICC suggested that matches could instead be held in Chennai or Thiruvananthapuram to mitigate these concerns.
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The Sports advisor claimed that three factors would raise security risks: Mustafizur Rahman playing, fans wearing jerseys in the stadium, and the approaching elections in Bangladesh.
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ICC response and venue changes
Media reports indicate that the ICC has denied the statements made by the Sports advisor. The board may soon release an official statement clarifying the matter. Meanwhile, it is being discussed that the BCCI may shift Bangladesh's matches from Kolkata and Mumbai to Visakhapatnam and Chennai. Fans now await the ICC's official announcement on the issue.
