Former South Africa cricketer Jonty Rhodes shared his views on how difficult it is to keep politics away from the game after Bangladesh decided not to take part in the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to be held in India. His comments came after the ICC announced that Scotland will replace Bangladesh in the tournament, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8.
Speaking on the issue at an event while interacting with ANI, Rhodes said, “I mean, you always think, let’s keep politics out of sport… but sadly, you can’t separate politics from sport…”
The Bangladesh Cricket Board had refused to come and play in India, citing ‘safety concerns’ as per the published match schedule, and had requested that their matches be shifted to Sri Lanka. The ICC rejected this request after finding no merit in the statement.
On January 24, the ICC confirmed that Scotland will take Bangladesh’s place in the tournament. The decision came after more than three weeks of discussions with the BCB. During this period, the ICC held several meetings, both online and in person. Detailed security plans, which covered central and state arrangements along with additional safety measures, were also shared with the BCB on multiple occasions.
Rhodes remained positive about the World Cup and the tournament format.
He said, “The T20 World Cup now has 20 teams. I think what the ICC is doing is fantastic, hosting a 20-team tournament. I live in India for five months of the year, so I’m looking forward to the World Cup being held in my home. As for who might win, who might reach the semi-finals, it’s very difficult to predict. In T20 cricket, one player can change the game in 10 minutes.”
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