Tuesday, May 05
Bangladesh's sports ministry has directed the cricket board to request the ICC shift T20 World Cup matches from India to Sri Lanka. This follows concerns over player safety after Mustafizur Rahman's IPL removal, reportedly due to recent political developments and deteriorating Indo-Bangladesh relations.
The matter was discussed following Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman’s exit from the Indian Premier League (IPL). BCB directors had earlier held an online meeting on Saturday night to deliberate on the issue.
With senior off-spinner Nathan Lyon ruled out because of a hamstring injury, Australia chose not to play a specialist spinner in Sydney. This marked the first time since 1888 that Australia fielded an all-pace attack at the SCG. It was also the third occasion in the ongoing Ashes series that Australia opted for only fast bowlers.
Bangladesh has asked the ICC to shift its T20 World Cup matches out of India after fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman was released from the IPL on BCCI advice. Citing player safety, the BCB refused to travel to India. Shashi Tharoor called the situation embarrassing, while Bangladeshi officials warned against disrespect amid strained bilateral ties.
World champion D Gukesh has withdrawn from the 2026 Tata Steel Chess India tournament in Kolkata due to personal reasons and will be replaced by Nihal Sarin. The decision has disappointed fans and organisers, who called it a major setback. Despite his absence, the January 7 event will feature top Indian and international players in both Open and Women’s sections.
