Daijiworld Media Network - Dhaka

Dhaka, Jan 17: The final round of crucial negotiations between the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) began on a troubled note after visa complications disrupted the ICC delegation’s visit to Dhaka, casting fresh uncertainty over Bangladesh’s participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026.

Andrew Ephgrave, ICC’s Head of Anti-Corruption and Security, arrived alone in the Bangladeshi capital on January 17 after his colleague, a senior ICC official of Indian nationality, reportedly failed to secure a visa in time. The development has been viewed by local media as reflective of the strained political climate between India and Bangladesh.

The visit is being seen as a last-ditch attempt by the ICC to break the deadlock over Bangladesh’s concerns regarding player and staff safety during the tournament, which is scheduled to begin on February 7. Bangladesh has formally requested that its group-stage matches, originally slated to be held in India, be shifted to Sri Lanka, citing security and political concerns.

With his colleague absent, Ephgrave now carries the full responsibility of negotiations. A former British police officer with wide experience in international sports security, he is expected to present a detailed security framework aimed at assuring Bangladeshi authorities of adequate protection for their team in India.

While the ICC has not officially commented on the visa issue, the incident has further highlighted the diplomatic sensitivities surrounding the tournament. With less than three weeks remaining for the World Cup to begin, time is running out for both sides to reach a consensus.

Failure to resolve the impasse could jeopardise the tournament even before its commencement, with the fate of Bangladesh’s participation hinging on the outcome of Ephgrave’s talks in Dhaka.