Yuvraj Singh’s heated argument with Andrew Flintoff in 2007:Bangladesh’s refusal to play in India: 5 controversies in T20 World Cup history

After a dominant T20I series win over New Zealand at home, Team India now shifts their focus to the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. The Men in Blue will open their campaign on February 7 against the USA and will also face Pakistan on February 15, along with Namibia and the Netherlands, during the group stage. India has been placed in Group A and will look to carry their strong momentum into the tournament. Over the years, the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup has produced countless memorable moments, not all of which have come from outstanding performances with bat and ball. The tournament has also witnessed several controversies that have sparked intense debate among fans and experts alike. From Yuvraj Singh’s heated argument in 2007, Shakib Al Hasan’s moment with umpire in 2022 to Bangladesh’s refusal to visit India for the World Cup 2026. Let’s revisit five of the most talked-about controversies in the history of the T20 World Cup. Top 5 controversies in T20 World Cup history 1. Yuvraj Singh vs Andrew Flintoff (T20 WC 2007) The inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 holds a special place in Indian cricket history, as Team India went on to become the first-ever champions of the tournament. The competition not only marked the rise of a young Indian side but also produced some unforgettable moments that remain etched in fans’ memories. One of the most talked-about incidents came during the match between India and England, when Yuvraj Singh was involved in a heated exchange with Andrew Flintoff. The confrontation occurred in the 18th over after Yuvraj hit Flintoff for two boundaries. What followed was historic, as Yuvraj took his frustration out on Stuart Broad in the next over, smashing six consecutive sixes in a stunning display of power-hitting. 2. Andrew Symonds sent back home mid-way (T20 WC 2009) The late Australian all-rounder Andrew Symonds, famous for his powerful physique and explosive batting, found himself at the centre of controversy during the 2009 T20 World Cup. Just before the tournament began, Symonds was sent back home due to disciplinary issues, creating a major talking point ahead of the event. Reports at the time stated that Symonds had breached several team rules, particularly those related to alcohol and conduct. Cameron White was named as his replacement, while Cricket Australia chief James Sutherland explained the decision by saying, “He broke several team-related issues, which, taken in isolation, were not serious, but in the scheme of history, they are enough for it to be the final straw.” 3. Quinton de Kock refuses to kneel (T20 WC 2021) South Africa’s wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock has long been known for his consistent performances and match-winning abilities. However, during the 2021 T20 World Cup, he drew attention for reasons unrelated to his on-field contributions. De Kock made himself unavailable for South Africa’s match against the West Indies after choosing not to take a knee in support of the “Black Lives Matter” movement, citing personal reasons. The decision sparked widespread criticism, following which he issued a public apology and took a knee in the Proteas’ next match against Sri Lanka. 4. Shakib Al Hasan vs Umpire (T20 WC 2022) The 2022 T20 World Cup witnessed another major controversy during the clash between Pakistan and Bangladesh, involving senior all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan. The incident unfolded in the 11th over of Bangladesh’s innings when Pakistan appealed after the ball struck Shakib on the pad. Although replays showed that the ball had touched his bat before hitting the pad, the third umpire upheld the on-field decision after a DRS review. The call sparked a heated exchange between Shakib and the umpire, with the Bangladesh star visibly frustrated as he walked off the field in anger. 5. Bangladesh refuse to visit India for T20 WC 2026 Ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, the tournament found itself in controversy once again after Bangladesh decided not to travel to India, citing ongoing political tensions and security concerns. The situation was further intensified following Kolkata Knight Riders’ decision to remove Mustafizur Rahman from their IPL 2026 contract. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) officially stated security reasons behind their withdrawal from the tournament. As a result of Bangladesh pulling out, the ICC brought Scotland into the competition as their replacement, adding another off-field twist to the build-up of the World Cup.