The Bangladesh government on Thursday formally confirmed that the national cricket team will not be sent to India to participate in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, citing what it described as an “unstable and risky” regional political situation.

Sports Adviser Asif Nazrul announced the decision, effectively rejecting an ultimatum issued by the International Cricket Council (ICC) a day earlier.

Speaking to reporters, the adviser made it clear that there would be no compromise when it comes to the safety of players and associated personnel.

“Due to security-related risks, Bangladesh will not be going to India to play the World Cup. This is a decision of the Bangladesh government, and no other entity has the authority to overrule it,” he said.

The announcement has significantly weakened the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s (BCB) efforts to find a negotiated solution, while also directly challenging pressure to comply with the ICC’s predetermined schedule.

When asked about the potential financial losses and damage to Bangladesh cricket arising from non-participation, Nazrul said national dignity and human lives outweigh all other considerations.

“One must also consider the potential harm of participating in the World Cup under these circumstances. Pushing our players, supporters and journalists into a genuine security risk amid the current regional political situation—essentially bowing our heads—would itself be a serious loss that must be weighed carefully,” he added.

On Wednesday, the ICC decided through a vote that Scotland would be included in the World Cup if Bangladesh refused to travel to India.

Despite the firm stance, the government said it has not completely ruled out a diplomatic resolution. The sports adviser noted that a change of venue could still resolve the impasse.

“We still hope the ICC will act fairly. There are numerous precedents in world cricket where venues were changed due to security concerns. Our proposal to host matches in Sri Lanka is not unreasonable. We have not given up hope yet,” he said.

Bangladesh’s position has now created fresh uncertainty around the upcoming T20 World Cup, adding a new dimension to the debate within international cricket circles.