January 24, 2026 – The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has hinted that Pakistan’s participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 could be impacted following the controversy over Bangladesh’s treatment by the ICC and its removal from the tournament.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi said Pakistan’s involvement will not be decided by the ICC but by the Government of Pakistan. The final decision on whether the Men in Green will play in the World Cup will be taken once the Prime Minister returns and guidance is received from the federal government.
Naqvi also criticised the ICC, accusing it of applying “double standards” after Bangladesh was reportedly treated unfairly for refusing to play matches in India due to security concerns. He said that Pakistan has shown support for Bangladesh and urged fairness among all cricketing nations.
There have also been calls from former players and cricket analysts urging Pakistan to boycott the World Cup in solidarity with Bangladesh. However, Naqvi stressed that any decision to pull out would be made only after governmental consultation and not solely by the PCB.
The uncertainty follows the ICC’s decision to replace Bangladesh with Scotland for the World Cup a dramatic development just weeks before the event begins on February 7, 2026 in India and Sri Lanka.
