WORLD CRICKETERS’ ASSOCIATION (WCA) has issued a statement following Bangladesh’s withdrawal from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, describing the development as a “sad moment for our sport, the Bangladesh players and fans, and one that requires deep reflection.”
The statement added, “In recent times, the WCA has become increasingly concerned by broader trends in the sport, including agreements not being honoured, rights being eroded, and a lack of meaningful consultation with players and their representatives, all of this amounts to a careless approach to people that should not belong in cricket. It also highlights significant issues with the game’s existing operating model at global level. These issues, if continued to be left unaddressed, will weaken trust, unity, and ultimately the health and future of the game we love.”
WCA call on the game’s leaders to work with all stakeholders, including Governing Bodies, leagues and players, to unite the sport, not divide it, and in the shared interest of the game’s long-term health and success.
Calling for collective action, the WCA urged the sport’s leadership to work collaboratively with all stakeholders including governing bodies, leagues and players to unite cricket rather than fragment it, in the shared interest of its sustainable growth and success.
Representing players and player associations worldwide, the WCA reaffirmed its support for Bangladesh’s cricketers and their association, the Cricketers Welfare Association of Bangladesh (CWAB). It also reiterated its commitment to engage constructively with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and all other stakeholders to help strengthen and develop the game at a global level.
