London/Delhi—January 2026—Citing persistent health and safety risks, the England cricket team has expressed grave concerns about traveling to India for the forthcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. According to reports, the reservations are related to the Nipah virus outbreak in West Bengal, where a number of games, including ones at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens, are planned.
Both Australia and England have expressed concerns about visiting India, and officials are keeping a careful eye on the matter, according to InsideSport. Before making a final decision, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is reportedly in communication with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and local authorities to evaluate the risks.
On February 7, 2026, Pakistan will play the Netherlands in Colombo to kick off the T20 World Cup. The scheduling of England’s group matches in India raises questions about whether the team will play there.
Despite being uncommon, health experts have cautioned that the high death rate of the Nipah virus makes it a serious threat. The ECB has stressed that no risks will be taken with the health of cricket players, and player safety has become a top priority.
England may ask the ICC to move games to different locations if worries continue, perhaps in Sri Lanka, which is already hosting a portion of the competition.
This development emphasizes how important health precautions are becoming in international sports, particularly in multi-national competitions. The decision could have a big impact on the tournament schedule and logistics, so fans and analysts are waiting for clarification.
The cricket community is currently keeping a close eye on whether England will move forward with its matches in India or request venue modifications in order to protect its players.
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