The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has escalated its dispute with the International Cricket Council (ICC) by sending a second formal letter, reiterating its demand to relocate Bangladesh's matches in the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 from India to Sri Lanka. The tournament is scheduled to run from February 7 to March 8, 2026, with India and Sri Lanka as co-hosts. Bangladesh is currently slated to play four group-stage matches in India, specifically three in Kolkata and one in Mumbai. This venue controversy gained traction after Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman was released from his IPL franchise, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), on instructions from the BCCI, which cited unspecified 'developments all around'. This move was perceived by the BCB as disrespectful and has been a significant catalyst for their hardened stance. Bangladesh's Sports Ministry advisor, Asif Nazrul, has reportedly adopted an uncompromising position, advocating for the relocation. The BCB's request for a venue change stems from stated security concerns regarding travel to India. While the ICC initially rejected Bangladesh's demand, cautioning that refusing to play would lead to forfeiture of points, subsequent reports suggest the global body has expressed willingness to work with the BCB to thoroughly assess the flagged security issues. However, the specifics of these security concerns have not been publicly disclosed. Further complicating the situation are reports of internal divisions within the Bangladesh Cricket Board itself, with one faction supporting the hardline approach of Nazrul and another advocating for continued dialogue with the ICC and Indian authorities to ensure enhanced security arrangements. Bangladesh is seeking a 'hybrid model' for its matches, similar to the arrangement made for Pakistan, which is scheduled to play all its T20 World Cup games in Sri Lanka. The ongoing standoff highlights mounting tensions in cricketing ties between India and Bangladesh, underscoring both sporting and geopolitical sensitivities.