What is the whole controversy?

Actually, Bangladesh Cricket Board had demanded to shift its World Cup matches from India to Sri Lanka citing security reasons. When the ICC rejected this demand by a 14–2 majority, Bangladesh decided to withdraw from the tournament, being replaced by Scotland. After this, Pakistan Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, showing solidarity with Bangladesh, had announced boycott of the match against India to be held on February 15.

Pakistan’s stance

Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif had recently said in the cabinet meeting that there should be no politics on the playground and standing with Bangladesh is the right decision. Pakistan argues that if Bangladesh had security concerns, the ICC should have considered them. As a protest, Pakistan had decided not to play the match against India.

Increasing tension between BCB and BCCI

The root of the controversy is also said to be the release of Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman by IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders. According to reports, Mustafizur was dropped from the team on the instructions of BCCI, after which the relations between BCB and BCCI turned sour. After this, BCB raised the issue of security and demanded match relocation. Even though the impasse is not completely over yet, ICC sources believe that the PCB may relent in view of the financial losses and pressure from broadcasters. The ICC is considering accepting some of Pakistan’s conditions to save the huge earnings from this match and the reputation of the tournament. A final decision on this is expected in the next few days.