T20 World Cup Twist: Scotland Accepts Last-Minute Offer, Prepares for India Trip

New Delhi: Scotland will now play in place of Bangladesh in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. ICC has formally announced this. Scotland has also confirmed that its team will soon reach India so that it can adapt to the conditions here before the tournament.

Why did Bangladesh pull out?

Bangladesh Cricket Board had decided to withdraw from the tournament citing security reasons. ICC tried to reassure, but Bangladesh stuck to its word. Ultimately the ICC had to take a decision to include another team in their place.

How did Scotland get the chance?

The ICC formally sent an invitation to Scotland, which Cricket Scotland accepted. Board Chief Executive Officer Trudy Lindblad said that this is a big opportunity for the players, even if this opportunity has come under unusual circumstances. He said that the Scotland team was already engaged in practice and will now come to India and prepare in the local conditions.

When will Scotland arrive in India?

The Scottish team is going to reach India in the coming days. The team management says that the players want to become familiar with the pitch, weather and grounds here so that there is no problem of any kind in the tournament. The T20 World Cup will start on 7 February 2026.

How did ICC take the final call?

Before this decision, an important ICC meeting was held in Dubai, which was presided over by Chairman Jay Shah. Bangladesh demanded the Dispute Resolution Committee to resolve the matter till the last moment, but the committee refused to accept it as a forum for appeal. After this the ICC cleared the way for the inclusion of Scotland.

Why was Scotland selected?

Scotland was selected on the basis of ICC rankings. The team has played the T20 World Cup five times before. It also participated in the 2022 and 2024 tournaments and performed well against strong teams, although it could not make it to the further rounds.

Which group will Scotland play in?

Scotland has been placed in Group C, where it will be joined by the teams of England, West Indies, Italy and Nepal.

Scotland's match schedule

• 7 February: Scotland v West Indies – Kolkata
• 9 February: Scotland v Italy – Eden Gardens
• 14 February: Scotland v England – Eden Gardens
• 17 February: Scotland vs Nepal – Mumbai