Bangladesh ’s recent pull-out over perceived security concerns for the showpiece T20 World Cup cricket hosted by India and Sri Lanka next month has underscored the unprecedented way regional political tensions have spilled over into sports. Bangladesh was replaced by Scotland in the 20-team event on Saturday after the International Cricket Council rejected Dhaka’s request to move its matches to Sri Lanka , saying it was not feasible to change the schedule so close to the February 7 start. The Pakistan Cricket Board has thrown its weight behind Bangladesh and is casting doubts about its own participation. Photo: ReutersThe events underline current tensions in South Asia. Last May, India and Pakistan fought a four-day war while ties between New Delhi and Dhaka have soured since former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina ’s regime was toppled by student-led protests in August 2024.