The International Cricket Council (ICC) is facing criticism after reportedly denying accreditation to over 100 Bangladeshi journalists for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to be held in India and Sri Lanka starting February 7. Reports indicate that between 130 and 150 journalists from Bangladesh had applied for accreditation to cover the tournament, but none were approved.
The decision has sparked controversy, especially since it follows the ICC's move to replace Bangladesh with Scotland in the T20 World Cup 2026. This replacement occurred after the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) expressed security concerns about playing matches in India and requested that their matches be moved to Sri Lanka. The ICC rejected this request, stating that there was no credible security threat and offered enhanced security measures.
Bangladeshi media outlets have reported the accreditation denials, with Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) media committee chairman Amzad Hossain confirming that all applicants from Bangladesh were rejected. According to The Daily Star, some photojournalists initially received approval emails, including visa support letters, but these were later revoked. Mir Farid, a photojournalist with Kaler Kantho, stated he received an approval email on January 20th, only to have it rescinded later.
The denial of accreditation has drawn strong reactions from the sports journalism community in Bangladesh. One veteran journalist, who covered the 1996 Cricket World Cup, expressed surprise at the decision, questioning why all applications from a single country were rejected. This journalist noted that even journalists from ICC Associate Member nations are typically granted accreditation, even if their teams are not participating. The Bangladesh Sports Journalists Association is planning to consult with other journalist bodies to determine their next steps.
The ICC's media department has not yet issued an official statement clarifying the reasons behind the reported rejections. The lack of explanation has fueled speculation and criticism. Some observers suggest the decision is linked to Bangladesh's opposition to the ICC's refusal to relocate their matches from India.
The situation has also caused reactions in Pakistan, with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) reportedly backing Bangladesh and accusing the ICC of "double standards". The PCB is said to be considering options to protest the ICC's actions, including a potential boycott of their match against India. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has briefed the Prime Minister of Pakistan on the matter and stated that all options are being considered.
The controversy raises questions about media access, transparency, and governance at major international sporting events. The complete exclusion of Bangladeshi media from covering a global event in neighboring countries is viewed by many as unusual and discriminatory.
