Fixture shift unlikely as BCCI cites logistical hurdles

Bangla Press Desk: Bangladesh’s scheduled matches in the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 are unlikely to be moved away from India, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) citing significant logistical and operational challenges in altering the existing itinerary on Sunday.

Amid growing speculation over a possible venue change, a senior BCCI official has dismissed the likelihood of any last-minute reshuffle, stressing that the tournament schedule is already stretched to its limit. Speaking to Indian broadcaster NDTV on condition of anonymity, the official said that shifting fixtures would be an extremely complex exercise involving multiple stakeholders.

“You can’t just change games at someone’s whims and fancies. It is a logistical nightmare,” the official was quoted as saying. “Think about opposition teams. Their air tickets and hotels are booked well in advance.”

The official further explained that the tightly packed nature of the tournament leaves virtually no room for adjustments. Each match day features three games, scheduled across morning, afternoon, and evening slots, with fixtures split between two venues in India and one in Sri Lanka. Any alteration, he noted, would also affect broadcast crews, venue staff, and tournament officials.

“On all days, there are three games each, which means one game is in Sri Lanka. There is a broadcast crew as well, so it will be easier said than done,” the official added.

Officials believe that moving all of Bangladesh’s matches out of India would require a major overhaul of the tournament framework, impacting teams, broadcasters and organisers alike. As things stand, the BCCI remains firm that the existing schedule will remain unchanged.

BP/SP