Goa, Jan. 10 -- The International Cricket Council (ICC) has rejected the Bangladesh Cricket Board's (BCB) request to shift its T20 World Cup 2026 matches out of India, stating that the appeal does not meet the required criteria for a venue change.

The BCB had raised concerns over player safety following recent diplomatic tensions between the two countries. The issue escalated after Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman was withdrawn from the IPL 2026, prompting the board to formally seek relocation of its World Cup fixtures.

In a statement issued on January 4, the BCB said it had decided against touring India after reviewing the security situation and acting on advice from the Bangladesh government.

However, the ICC has remained fir...