“There is no question of regret [at being excluded from the World Cup]. This decision was taken by the BCB and the players as they made sacrifices for the safety of the country's cricket, the safety of the people and to protect national dignity.” Nazrul said at a media conference.
His remarks mark a shift from his earlier stance during the stalemate, when he had said the government decided not to send the team and the BCB acted on its instructions.
Nazrul had also indicated in January that Bangladesh were unwilling to play in India, following the BCCI’s directive to Kolkata Knight Riders to release Mustafizur Rahman from IPL 2026.
After discussions involving the ICC and PCB in Lahore, attended by BCB president Aminul Islam, the ICC confirmed Bangladesh would not face any penalty for their withdrawal and awarded them hosting rights for an ICC event in 2028. Scotland replaced Bangladesh in the tournament.
