T20 World Cup 2026: Scotland Reacts to Potential Spot if Bangladesh Withdraws

Bangladesh’s refusal to play its matches in India for the T20 World Cup 2026 could open the door for Scotland to participate, according to reports. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has reiterated its stance of not backing down, but the International Cricket Council (ICC) may exclude Bangladesh from the tournament if it continues to insist on withdrawing. In such a scenario, Scotland, based on current world rankings, could replace Bangladesh.

Scotland Awaits Official Invitation
Following the reports, Scotland Cricket issued a statement saying that it has not yet received any formal invitation from the ICC. However, they indicated that they would be willing to accept the offer if it comes. The Scottish board also confirmed that they will not independently approach the ICC on this matter, out of respect for the Bangladesh Cricket Board.

Replacement Based on Rankings
Media reports suggest that the ICC may consider Scotland as Bangladesh’s replacement in the T20 World Cup, as Scotland currently holds the 14th position in the T20 rankings. The ICC’s rule is that the highest-ranked team not originally qualified will be given the chance if a team withdraws.

Scotland’s Previous Replacement Experience
If Scotland enters the 2026 T20 World Cup as a replacement, it would not be a first. In the 2009 T20 World Cup in England, Zimbabwe withdrew from the tournament due to political reasons. Scotland, having finished second in the Global Qualifiers, replaced Zimbabwe and participated in the tournament.

ICC Sets Deadline; Bangladesh Maintains Position
According to reports, a meeting between the ICC and BCB took place in Dhaka on Saturday, where ICC officials reminded Bangladesh that only three weeks remain before the tournament begins. The ICC reportedly rejected Bangladesh’s security concerns in India and stated that neither their matches could be shifted to Sri Lanka nor their group altered. Bangladesh was given a deadline of January 21 to make a final decision. However, in a press conference on Monday evening, the BCB dismissed the claim and reiterated that they will not send the team to India.