Which team will replace Bangladesh if BCB pulls out from T20 World Cup 2026?
The ICC deadline is approaching, but Bangladesh’s participation is still uncertain.
Uncertainty remains regarding Bangladesh’s participation in the T20 World Cup 2026. The attention has firmly shifted to a crucial question: which team will replace Bangladesh if the BCB pulls out?
With the January 21 deadline fast approaching, the ICC has made it clear that the tournament will proceed with or without the Tigers.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board has raised concerns about playing their scheduled matches in India. The BCB is pushing for a venue change or a group swap. However, the ICC has rejected these proposals, insisting that Bangladesh must either accept the existing schedule or step aside.
Should the BCB officially confirm non-participation after the deadline, the ICC is expected to act immediately to ensure the tournament structure remains intact.
Under ICC regulations, any replacement team would be selected based on T20I rankings and recent competitive performance. This process is designed to preserve balance and quality in global events.
Which team is the frontrunner to replace Bangladesh
As things stand, Scotland appear to be the strongest and most logical replacement for Bangladesh in the T20 World Cup 2026. Scotland currently sit 12th in the ICC Men’s T20I Team Rankings. At this point, they are ahead of other Associate nations such as the Netherlands, the UAE, and Papua New Guinea.
This ranking alone places them at the front of the queue should a vacancy arise. Historically, the ICC has followed this exact model, drafting in the highest-ranked eligible side to avoid disruption.
On-field performances further strengthen Scotland’s case. In the 2024 T20 World Cup, they progressed to the Super 12 stage and delivered one of the tournament’s most memorable matches. They pushed Australia till the end in a thrilling high-scoring encounter.
Wins over Namibia and Oman highlighted their ability to handle pressure on the global stage. Their consistency continued into the 2025 qualification cycle as they secured crucial victories against Zimbabwe and the UAE in must-win situations.
Logistically, Scotland also fit the ICC’s requirements. As a European Associate nation, they are likely to face fewer visa and travel complications for matches in India. From a commercial perspective, broadcasters see value in a Scottish side that features recognisable names like George Munsey and Brandon McMullen. These players have already made their mark in franchise leagues globally.
If Bangladesh withdraws, the replacement team will inherit their fixtures without any changes to the tournament format. That includes competing in Group C alongside New Zealand, West Indies, Nepal, and Italy, with a potential opening match against West Indies on February 7.
All signs point to Scotland as the strongest and most practical replacement if the BCB decides not to play in the T20 WC 2026.
Why could Bangladesh miss the T20 World Cup 2026?
The BCB has refused to play its scheduled matches in India due to security concerns.
What is the ICC’s deadline for Bangladesh’s confirmation?
The ICC has set January 21 as the deadline for Bangladesh to confirm participation.
Which team is most likely to replace Bangladesh?
Scotland are the leading contender based on ICC T20I rankings and recent performances.
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Vishwajit Sawant is a sports content writer with two years of experience who believes in writing that feels honest, simple, and easy to read. He enjoys breaking down sporting moments into stories readers can genuinely connect with, without relying on fancy vocabulary. His work spans cricket, football, basketball, tennis, and Formula 1, with a focus on match previews, reviews, and reports. Vishwajit believes good content doesn’t need to be loud — it just needs to leave a subtle impact.