Bangladesh have decided to boycott next month's men's T20 World Cup and will be replaced by Scotland, who are set to take their place in Group C as the highest-ranked team not already in the tournament.

The International Cricket Council has yet to formally announce the decision, but the move follows Bangladesh's refusal to play matches scheduled in India.

Security Concerns Cited

Bangladesh had requested their games be switched from India to Sri Lanka, which is co-hosting the tournament, citing safety concerns amid growing tensions between the two countries.

The BCB's demand came against the backdrop of deteriorating India-Bangladesh relations, which have seen diplomatic friction over multiple issues in recent months.

ICC Rejects Request

Earlier this week, the ICC rejected Bangladesh's venue change request, stating there was an "absence of any credible security threat" to justify relocating the matches.

Following the rejection, the Bangladesh Cricket Board reaffirmed its position, refusing to send its team to India under current circumstances.

Deadline Passes Without Resolution

A source close to the ICC board revealed that BCB was given a final 24-hour window to confirm they would travel to India. With that deadline now passed, ICC officials have decided to proceed with an alternative plan.

Scotland Step In

Scotland, as the highest-ranked team not already participating in the tournament, are now in line to replace Bangladesh in Group C. The move ensures the tournament proceeds without disruption to the schedule.

The boycott marks an unprecedented situation in international cricket, with geopolitical tensions directly impacting a major ICC event.