Scotland Steps Into T20 World Cup After ICC Replaces Bangladesh
Cricket Scotland chief executive Trudy Lindblade has expressed sympathy for the Bangladesh cricket team after the International Cricket Council (ICC) officially replaced them with Scotland in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026. The decision, announced on Saturday, came after Bangladesh's government reiterated that its players would not compete in India, requesting matches be shifted to Sri Lanka instead.
"This Is Not How We Wanted to Go to a World Cup"
Lindblade acknowledged the unusual circumstances surrounding Scotland's qualification. "We certainly have sympathy for the Bangladesh team," she stated when asked about replacing the side. "Obviously, this is not how we wanted to go to a World Cup. There is a qualification process and nobody wants to qualify or attend or be invited to a World Cup in the way that we have done."
She emphasized that while Scotland is pleased to participate, they recognize the challenging situation. "We acknowledge it is certainly unique circumstances for our participation, and we do feel for the Bangladesh players," Lindblade told ESPNCricinfo.
ICC's Firm Stance on Tournament Integrity
The ICC's decision followed a 24-hour ultimatum given to the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) after their government's refusal to play in India. BCB president Aminul Islam and sports advisor Asif Nazrul had cited "security concerns" as reasons for their demand, a claim the ICC categorically rejected.
The ICC Board, with only Pakistan supporting Bangladesh's stand, determined that:
- Making schedule changes so close to the tournament was not feasible
- Altering arrangements without credible security threats could set a dangerous precedent
- Such actions might jeopardize the sanctity of future ICC events and undermine neutrality
Scotland's Preparedness and Tournament Schedule
Lindblade highlighted Scotland's readiness despite the unexpected call-up. "We are a team that is ranked 14th in the world. We are also a strong team that plays consistently throughout the year," she noted. "That World Cup qualifier for us was not how we normally play, and therefore we are just pleased to be at this World Cup."
Scotland will primarily play their matches in Kolkata, with three games scheduled there and one in Mumbai. The T20 World Cup is set to begin on February 7, 2026.
"We are happy to step in, although it is unique and challenging circumstances and we absolutely recognise that," Lindblade concluded, reflecting the mixed emotions surrounding Scotland's last-minute inclusion in cricket's premier T20 event.
