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Shakib backs Tamim Iqbal in T20 World Cup row, urges BCB to focus on best interests

Harsh Adwani

Shakib Al Hasan backs Tamim Iqbal [Source: @ICC/x.com]Shakib Al Hasan backs Tamim Iqbal [Source: @ICC/x.com]

The T20 World Cup row involving the Bangladesh Cricket Board and the ICC seems to be at a standstill at the moment. BCB had requested that their World Cup games be shifted from India to Sri Lanka amidst the political tension between the two nations.

Now, former Bangladesh skipper Shakib Al Hasan has backed Tamim Iqbal’s thoughts on the situation and has requested BCB to focus on what is in the best interest of Bangladesh cricket in the long term. Shakib, while speaking in an exclusive interview with BDCricTime, added that all the details of the situation have not been made public yet.

“It’s difficult for me to say exactly where Bangladesh stands right now. What matters is the communication between the BCB and the ICC – the emails, the discussions. Often, many things are said in the media, but very little of it is documented officially. Until something actually happens, it’s hard to know what’s really going on,” he said.

“I hope a decision is taken that does not damage Bangladesh cricket, one that is beneficial for its future and doesn’t put us in any difficult situation with anyone. I believe this can be handled through cricketing diplomacy. Positions can change depending on circumstances, but the goal should be to ensure Bangladesh cricket doesn’t suffer whether the decision is taken by the board or the government,” he added.

Shakib Al Hasan urges BCB to listen to what players want

Shakib Al Hasan requested the board to listen to what players want, as the stakes are the highest for them. He revealed that players end up suffering the most in situations like these.

“A World Cup is a special event for everyone, especially for players. Players are often the ones who suffer the most in such situations. So it would be good if their opinions are considered and discussed, even though there will always be final decision-makers,” he said.

ICC asks BCB to reconsider its stance

In the meantime, the ICC has requested BCB to reconsider its stance since the schedule has already been announced. However, BCB have confirmed that they are firm on their stance.

"While the ICC highlighted that the tournament itinerary has already been announced and requested the BCB to reconsider its stance, the Board's position remains unchanged. Both parties agreed that discussions will continue to explore possible solutions," the BCB said in its statement.

"The BCB remains committed to safeguarding the well-being of its players, officials and staff while engaging constructively with the ICC to address the matter," the statement further read.

The final verdict is yet to be made by the BCB and the ICC. With less than a month to go for the event, a final call could be made any time soon. Bangladesh are scheduled to play three of their games in Kolkata and one in Mumbai as per the original schedule.