Why Scotland will replace Bangladesh in T20 World Cup 2026 if Bangladesh withdraws?

There is big news about the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, as Bangladesh have reportedly received the ultimatum from the International Cricket Council (ICC) to decide whether to go with the original schedule or not. In the case of a negative result, they will reportedly be replaced by Scotland for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Here, we will know why Scotland can replace Bangladesh for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. 

Since early this month, citing the concern of the safety and well-being of the players, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has requested the ICC to shift their game, most importantly from India to Sri Lanka, where Pakistan will also play the entire tournament. 

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ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026: If Bangladesh refuse to travel India, Scotland can reportedly replace 

The ICC has assured the safety and well-being of the Bangladesh players, while the BCB has still stayed intact on their primary request for venue changes for the upcoming T20 World Cup. While the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly shown their support for the BCB, the ICC board has reportedly finally decided on a vote that either Bangladesh have to play according to the original schedule, or they will lose their place in the tournament. 

According to media reports, if Bangladesh sticks to their decision not travel to India for the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, Scotland are reportedly going to replace the Asian side. But how can the potential replacement happen?

Why Scotland can replace Bangladesh for ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026?

Scotland are standing at the top of the ICC Men's T20I rankings among the teams that haven't qualified for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. At present, Scotland are in the 14th position in the ICC Men's T20I rankings, and due to standing at the top among the non-qualified teams, they can replace Bangladesh for the upcoming T20 World Cup. 

In the 2024 edition, Scotland closely missed the Super Eight place for the tournament, which would guarantee their place for the upcoming T20 World Cup. In the European qualifiers for the upcoming T20 World Cup edition, while two teams could earn a place, as the Netherlands and Italy confirmed their spots, Scotland finished in fourth position.