As a devoted follower of international cricket, I firmly believe that global tournaments must uphold fairness, consistency, and respect for all member nations, while also ensuring the safety and peace of mind of players, officials, journalists, and supporters.

In recent months, legitimate security-related concerns were raised regarding Bangladesh’s participation in the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. These concerns were formally communicated by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and reflected apprehensions shared by players, journalists, and supporters alike.

Concerns about the safety and well-being of Bangladesh’s players, officials, and supporters have been raised not only by formal administrative discussions but also by the broader environment in which Bengali-speaking people have faced hostility and violence. For example, a recent news report documented the killing of a migrant worker in Andhra Pradesh after he was branded as “Bangladeshi.” Incidents such as this help explain why members of the Bangladeshi cricket community may feel anxious about travel and participation, even when no direct threat has been formally acknowledged.

Despite initially stating that there was “no credible or verifiable security threat”, the ICC has now announced Scotland as a replacement, while Bangladesh has been excluded from consideration. This decision has caused deep concern among Bangladeshi stakeholders and has created a troubling perception that Bangladesh has been treated differently from other member nations, without a clear or transparent explanation.

If safety concerns warranted changes or alternative arrangements, then all affected teams deserved equal opportunity, consultation, and respect. Selectively excluding Bangladesh undermines the principles of neutrality and equal membership that international cricket claims to uphold.

This petition is a peaceful and respectful appeal, not directed against any country or people. We urge the ICC to:
1. Publicly explain the rationale behind excluding Bangladesh
2. Clarify why Bangladesh was not offered equal alternatives
3. Ensure consistent and transparent decision-making for all member nations
4. Reaffirm its commitment to fairness and non-discrimination

Why This Petition Matters

Signing this petition is a call to uphold equal treatment for all ICC member nations, demand transparency in decision-making, and ensure that safety concerns are addressed fairly and without discrimination. It is also a stand for the integrity and credibility of international cricket.
International cricket has long relied on neutral venues and balanced solutions during sensitive situations. Such measures protect participants while preserving the integrity and credibility of the game.

Bangladesh is a proud and responsible member of the ICC. Equal membership must mean equal treatment.

We respectfully call upon the ICC to review this decision, address the concerns of Bangladeshi players and supporters, and restore confidence in the values of fairness, transparency, and integrity in international cricket.