# Dr. Asif Nazrul: Bangladesh Won’t Play World Cup at the Cost of National Honor or Safety

> Bangladesh Youth and Sports Adviser Dr. Asif Nazrul has stated that the country will not compromise national dignity or player safety to play in the World Cup. While Bangladesh is eager to participate, it may seek an al…

Published: 2026-01-08 · Desk: Latest · Source: R TV

Youth and Sports Adviser Dr. Asif Nazrul has stated that Bangladesh will not compromise on national dignity or safety to play in the World Cup. Even if the team qualifies through hard work, they will not participate at the cost of national humiliation or by putting players, spectators, or journalists at risk.

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday (January 7) after a meeting with Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) directors at the Secretariat, Dr. Nazrul emphasized, “We are a cricket-loving nation and naturally want to play in the World Cup. But this cannot come at the expense of national honor or the safety of our players, fans, and journalists.”

He added that after reviewing a recent letter from the International Cricket Council (ICC), Bangladesh believes the serious security risks facing its players in India have not been fully appreciated. “For me, this is not just a security issue; it is a matter of national dignity,” he said.

Dr. Nazrul declined to comment on India’s communal situation but reaffirmed that Bangladesh will not compromise on player safety, national security, or the country’s honor.

He further stated that Bangladesh is keen to participate in the World Cup and is prepared to play in an alternative host country such as Sri Lanka. The government remains firm on this stance, confident that the ICC can be persuaded to consider Bangladesh’s position fairly, ensuring the team’s opportunity to compete in the T20 World Cup.

Dr. Nazrul concluded that Bangladesh’s main objective is to make a reasoned case to the ICC, standing firm on safety, respect, and national dignity, while still expressing the nation’s strong desire to participate in the tournament.

Original reporting: https://rtvonline.com/sports/363969
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