In a landmark move that reshapes the competitive fabric of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially announced its updated fixtures following Bangladesh’s withdrawal from the tournament. Citing unresolved “security concerns” about playing in India—one of the co-hosts alongside Sri Lanka—the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) refused to participate despite repeated assurances from Indian authorities and the ICC .
As a result, **Scotland** has been invited to replace Bangladesh in **Group C**, with all original match dates, venues, and opponents remaining intact. This means fans in Kolkata and Mumbai will now witness Scotland’s historic debut in the main draw of a T20 World Cup under dramatic circumstances. The decision not only alters the group dynamics but also sends a strong message about accountability and adherence to global sporting commitments.
Despite extensive security briefings and guarantees from both the ICC and the Government of India—including dedicated protocols for team safety, travel, and accommodation—the BCB maintained its position that conditions were “not conducive” for its players to compete in India .
This stance came as a surprise to many, given that Bangladesh has toured India multiple times in recent years without incident, including during the 2023 ODI World Cup. Analysts suggest the decision may have been influenced by domestic political pressures or internal board dynamics rather than genuine security threats. Regardless of the motive, the ICC deemed the refusal a breach of its participation agreement, leading to Bangladesh’s removal—a rare but justified enforcement of tournament integrity.
The good news for fans? **Very little has changed in the actual schedule.** The ICC confirmed that all match timings, venues, and broadcast arrangements remain exactly as previously announced. The only update is the substitution of teams: wherever “Bangladesh” appeared in the fixture list for Group C, it now reads “Scotland.”
Key matches in the revised T20 World Cup fixtures updated include:
(Note: Opponent names and exact dates align with the ICC’s official Group C lineup, which includes other qualified nations like Afghanistan, West Indies, and potentially a qualifier winner.)
No rescheduling was required, ensuring minimal disruption to ticket holders, broadcasters, and local organizers.
For Scottish cricket, this is nothing short of a dream come true. Ranked No. 14 in the ICC T20I rankings and consistently the top-performing Associate nation, Scotland has long deserved a shot at the main event. Now, they get it—not through qualification alone, but through circumstance and merit combined.
Players like captain Richie Berrington, all-rounder Michael Leask, and fast bowler Brad Wheal will now test themselves against elite opposition on cricket’s biggest T20 stage. Their inclusion also reinforces the ICC’s commitment to elevating Associate teams, proving that readiness and performance can open doors even in extraordinary situations.
Group C, split between **Kolkata’s Eden Gardens** and **Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium**, remains one of the most exciting pools in the tournament. With Scotland replacing Bangladesh, the group loses a spin-heavy, unpredictable side but gains a disciplined, pace-oriented unit known for tactical discipline and counter-attacking flair.
While Scotland may be considered underdogs, their ability to upset higher-ranked teams—as seen in past wins over England and West Indies—means no opponent can afford to take them lightly. For fans attending matches in these iconic venues, the revised lineup promises fresh narratives and unexpected drama.
For spectators who purchased tickets expecting to see Bangladesh, the ICC has assured that all tickets remain valid. Broadcasters like Star Sports and Sky Sports have already updated their graphics and commentary plans to feature Scotland prominently.
Digital platforms, including the ICC’s official app and fantasy cricket leagues, have also rolled out real-time updates. Fantasy managers are now scrambling to research Scottish players—a sign that the ripple effects of this change are being felt across the cricket ecosystem.
The announcement of the T20 World Cup fixtures updated marks more than a logistical adjustment—it’s a pivotal moment in cricket history. It underscores that participation in global events comes with responsibilities, and that opportunities can emerge for those who consistently prove their worth. As Scotland prepares to walk onto the field in Kolkata and Mumbai, they carry not just their nation’s hopes, but the aspirations of every Associate team dreaming of a place at the table. Don’t miss a single ball—follow our live coverage at [INTERNAL_LINK:t20-world-cup-live-scores].
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