We will stand firm on our decision: Bulbul

Speaking to the media today after a meeting with Sports Adviser Asif Nazrul, Bulbul said the BCB has already formally communicated its concerns over safety and security to the International Cricket Council (ICC).

"Our primary responsibility is to ensure the safety of the players. Beyond that, there are journalists, sponsors and thousands of supporters," he added.

"Since a government order is required for foreign tours, we are waiting for the government's guidance. If the security situation does not improve, we will fight for our rights."

The issue gained attention after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) asked IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladesh star pacer Mustafizur Rahman, triggering fresh debate over security concerns.

"When it becomes difficult to ensure the safety of an international player like Mustafizur Rahman and he has to be released, it is natural for Bangladeshi fans to be concerned about his safety. This is a very logical question," Bulbul said.
 
Responding to a query on whether Bangladesh would maintain its objections even if other countries participated in the tournament, the BCB president said the board is not making any unrealistic demands.

"We are raising realistic and logical issues. We have played in many World Cups in the past, but we have never had to raise such security concerns," he added.

Despite the uncertainty, Bulbul confirmed that preparations for the T20 World Cup are continuing as planned.

"The squad for the T20 World Cup has already been announced, and one of the objectives of the ongoing BPL is to further prepare the team for the T20 format. Preparations for the tournament are ongoing," he said.

Bulbul also dismissed reports claiming that the ICC had rejected BCB's request to shift matches out of India.

"The news is completely baseless. We have been in regular contact with the 
ICC. They have asked us to outline our specific concerns, and we are conveying them in writing," he clarified.

The BCB president acknowledged that the board is fully aware of the possible 
consequences of not participating in the World Cup. He cited past examples, noting that India have previously avoided touring Pakistan due to security concerns, while Pakistan has also skipped World Cups held in India, reports BSS. 

"Even if we have to compromise on the World Cup due to security issues in India, we will remain firm on our stance. We are hoping for an acceptable and correct solution," Bulbul concluded.