“They cannot complain about our security system” - Mohammad Azharuddin slams Bangladesh Cricket Board for T20 WC boycott calls

Former Indian skipper Mohammad Azharuddin has slammed the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) for their calls to boycott the forthcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2026 campaign, scheduled to start on February 7, in India and Sri Lanka.

Speaking to the media ahead of the mega event, Azharuddin stated that eventually the game of cricket in Bangladesh will suffer in this controversy. Moreover, he added that while all other countries don't have any security concerns, it’s not reasonable for Bangladesh to complain about security issues in India.

‘If they don't come, it is their loss. They cannot complain about our security system. A lot of international matches are going on, and no team has complained. If they don't come, it will be their loss and a loss for their players. Our country is very secure," Azharuddin said as quoted by Asianet Newsable

"All the teams are playing. New Zealand are currently playing in India, and South Africa played just a few days ago. You can't keep shifting the World Cup matches here and there. Since the matches are already scheduled, it is very difficult to shift matches," he added.

On the other hand, Bangladesh sports advisor Asif Nazrul made it clear on Bangladesh’s decision not to travel to India, complaining that the ICC has rejected their request.

"Our security risk in playing in India has not changed at all. This concern did not arise from any imaginary analysis or assumption. It arose from a real incident, where one of the best players of our country was forced to bow his head before extremists, and the Indian cricket board removed him from India, plainly speaking, asked him to leave," Asif Nazurl stated.

If Bangladesh decides not to travel to Bangladesh, the ICC is expected to replace them with Scotland in the showpiece event.

Stay updated with the latest cricket news, match insights, and exclusive updates at BetBarter and download the BetBarter app to start betting today!