Cricket Fraternity Reacts to ICC’s Double Standards Over Replacing Bangladesh in ICC T20 World Cup

The decision of ICC to replace Bangladesh with Scotland in the 2026 T20 World Cup has been slammed by many ex-cricketers. This dubious decision has showcased the double standards of the global cricket governing body that has not remained consistent with its calls. Many people are now slamming this decision, calling it a sheer biased view of the body towards Bangladesh.

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi expressed his disappointment over the decision of ICC to replace Bangladesh with Scotland. He said the international body accepted India’s concerns last year over not touring Pakistan, but it has not given the same concession to Bangladesh this time.

"As a former international cricketer who has played in Bangladesh and in ICC events, I’m deeply disappointed by today's ICC’s inconsistency. It accepted India’s security concerns for not touring Pakistan in 2025, yet appears unwilling to apply the same understanding to Bangladesh," said Shahid Afridi.

He further added that ICC needs to remain consistent with its decisions, as it is the key pillar of global cricket governance.

"Consistency and fairness are the foundation of global cricket governance. Bangladesh’s players and millions of its fans deserve respect - not mixed standards. The ICC should build bridges, not burn them," said Shahid Afridi.

Besides Shahid Afridi, former Australian legend Jason Gillespie openly questioned the neutrality of the ICC. He demanded an explanation from the body on how it allowed India to change venues for the Champions Trophy last year, while not allowing Bangladesh to play its matches outside India this time.

"Has there been an explanation from the ICC why Bangladesh could not play their games outside of India?" questioned Jason Gillespie.

"From memory, India refused to play Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan and they were allowed to play those games outside of Pakistan. Can someone make this make sense," added Jason Gillespie.