NEW DELHI: Bangladesh has cleared its national shooting team to compete in next month’s Asian Shooting Championships in New Delhi, days after the country’s cricket side declined to tour India over security concerns — a decision that ultimately cost them a place in the Twenty20 World Cup.
Bangladesh were replaced by Scotland in the T20 World Cup, scheduled from February 7 to March 8, after refusing to play matches in India amid strained political ties. The International Cricket Council rejected Bangladesh’s request to shift their fixtures to co-host Sri Lanka, citing security assessments and logistical constraints.
In contrast, Bangladeshi media reported that the sports ministry has approved a three-member shooting contingent — athlete Robiul Islam, coach Sharmin Akhter and jury official Saima Feroze — to travel to India for the continental event.
National Rifle Association of India Secretary General Pawan Singh confirmed Bangladesh’s participation, saying clearances for all teams had been in process for months.
He added that the Bangladeshi shooters had not sought any special security arrangements and were familiar with India’s tournament protocols from previous competitions.
The Asian Shooting Championships, organised by the Asian Shooting Confederation, will take place in New Delhi from February 2 to 14.