A fresh controversy has erupted ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup, with reports claiming that the International Cricket Council (ICC) has cancelled media accreditation for around 100 Bangladeshi sports journalists, triggering widespread criticism and debate.
The development comes at a time when tensions surrounding Bangladesh’s participation in the tournament were already making headlines.
Bangladesh Already Out of the Tournament
Earlier, Bangladesh was reportedly excluded from the T20 World Cup, after declining to travel to India, citing concerns related to security and dignity, according to reports circulating in regional media.
Following Bangladesh’s absence, Scotland was included in the tournament lineup, a move that sparked further debate among cricket fans and analysts.
Media Accreditation Applications Rejected
According to reports, around 100 Bangladeshi sports journalists had applied for media accreditation to cover the T20 World Cup.
However:
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All applications were reportedly rejected or cancelled
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No Bangladeshi journalist will be present at the event for on-ground coverage
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The decision has raised serious concerns over media freedom and transparency
So far, the ICC has not issued a detailed public explanation addressing the cancellations.
Criticism Grows Over ICC’s Approach
The latest development has intensified criticism of the ICC, with observers calling it an example of institutional rigidity and political insensitivity.
Cricket analysts argue that:
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Media access is a core part of global sporting events
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Blanket rejection of journalists damages credibility
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Such decisions fuel perceptions of bias and unequal treatment
The situation has shifted attention from on-field cricket to off-field politics, overshadowing the tournament buildup.
Cricket Overshadowed by Politics Once Again
Before a single ball has been bowled, the T20 World Cup is now surrounded by:
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Diplomatic tensions
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Media restrictions
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Questions over governance and fairness
For many fans, this has taken focus away from the game itself, raising uncomfortable questions about the direction of international cricket administration.
Silence Raises More Questions
With no official clarification yet from the ICC, uncertainty continues to grow. Observers believe that unless transparency is provided, the controversy may escalate further in the coming days.
