A simple question on social media turned into an uncomfortable experience for former Australia fast bowler and ex-Pakistan bowling coach Jason Gillespie. The former cricketer found himself facing heavy backlash online after questioning the decision of the International Cricket Council to remove Bangladesh from the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026.
The controversy began after the ICC officially confirmed that Scotland would replace Bangladesh in the tournament, which is set to be hosted by India and Sri Lanka. Reacting to the announcement, Jason Gillespie took to X to ask why Bangladesh were not given the option to play their matches outside India. He wrote, “Has there been an explanation from the ICC why Bangladesh could not play their games outside of India?”
He also referred to a past situation to highlight what he felt was inconsistency in decision-making. Jason Gillespie pointed out that India had previously been allowed to play Champions Trophy matches outside Pakistan after choosing not to travel there. Questioning the logic behind the current decision, he added, “Can someone make this make sense?”
The post quickly gained traction, going viral within hours as screenshots spread across platforms. While some supported his point, many others reacted angrily, directing abuse at Jason Gillespie. The intensity of the response eventually led him to delete the tweet.
Soon after, Jason Gillespie clarified why he chose to take the post down. Responding to a question about the deletion, he gave a blunt and honest reply, saying, “Because I got abused for asking a simple question, that’s why.”
https://x.com/dizzy259/status/2015341224455262448
Reports suggest that Bangladesh had requested a change of venue due to security concerns linked to rising political tensions with India. They had asked the ICC to schedule their matches in Sri Lanka but the request was reportedly rejected, resulting in their removal from the tournament.
Following Bangladesh’s exit, Scotland were placed in Group B of the T20 World Cup 2026. They will start their campaign against the West Indies on February 7 in Kolkata, followed by matches against Italy on February 9 and England on February 14. Scotland will wrap up their league stage against Nepal on February 17.
