Dhaka(The COW News Digital)Bangladesh has denied a visa to an Indian official who was part of an International Cricket Council (ICC) delegation scheduled to visit the country, a move that has drawn attention amid ongoing sensitivities surrounding cricket events in South Asia.
According to Indian media reports, a two-member ICC delegation was due to travel to Bangladesh to discuss issues related to World Cup venues. The delegation included Andrew Ephgrave, the ICC’s Head of Anti-Corruption and Security, and a senior executive of Indian nationality. However, Bangladeshi authorities granted a visa only to Ephgrave, while the Indian official was denied entry.
Media reports said Andrew Ephgrave is expected to arrive in Bangladesh today for a two-day visit. During his stay, he is scheduled to hold meetings with Bangladeshi cricket and security officials. The primary purpose of the visit is to review security arrangements and engage in discussions regarding the possible relocation of certain World Cup venues.
The denial of a visa to the Indian official comes against the backdrop of broader regional tensions affecting cricket scheduling and security decisions. Bangladesh has already expressed serious reservations about playing its T20 World Cup matches in India, citing security concerns. As a result, Bangladeshi authorities have formally declined to send their team to India for those fixtures.
While no official explanation has been issued by Dhaka regarding the visa refusal, observers believe the decision reflects heightened caution in diplomatic and sporting engagements involving India. The ICC has not publicly commented on whether the absence of the Indian official will affect the outcome of the discussions or future inspections.
Cricket analysts note that venue assessments and security evaluations are critical components of World Cup planning. Any disruption to ICC delegation visits could complicate decision-making, especially at a time when multiple boards are raising concerns over player safety and logistical challenges.
The situation also underscores the growing intersection of politics, security, and international sport in the region. In recent years, bilateral tensions have increasingly influenced cricket ties, often leading to venue changes, neutral locations, or postponed tours.
Despite the visa issue, ICC officials are expected to continue engagement with the Bangladesh Cricket Board to ensure tournament requirements are met. Whether the matter will escalate into a broader diplomatic concern or remain a limited administrative decision remains to be seen.
For now, the focus remains on security assessments and negotiations over World Cup venues, with Bangladesh maintaining a firm stance on safety considerations for its players and officials.
