Pakistan is reportedly considering a boycott of the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 if Bangladesh decides against participating due to its refusal to play matches in India over security concerns. Sources told Geo News that Pakistan’s stance depends on the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) response to Bangladesh’s request to relocate its matches.
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Bangladesh had sought to move their matches to Sri Lanka, co-host of the tournament, citing safety risks stemming from strained political ties with India. The ICC, however, rejected the request, leaving the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) with two options: withdraw the demand or risk being replaced in the tournament.
Pakistan will boycott the World Cup if Bangladesh’s demands are not met! In such a situation, thanks to the Pakistan Cricket Board for standing with Bangladesh.🇧🇩🇵🇰 pic.twitter.com/72Uldc0zCL
— Resistance.🇧🇩 (@Abubakar1594673) January 19, 2026
BCB President Aminul Islam said he would consult with the government before a final decision. Reports indicate that senior Bangladeshi players are in favour of participating in the World Cup despite the venue dispute. The Bangladeshi government is expected to take players’ views into account today before announcing the final position.
Political tensions between Dhaka and New Delhi have already affected cricket relations. Earlier this year, Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman was dropped from the Indian Premier League (IPL) despite signing with Kolkata Knight Riders, prompting Bangladesh to ban IPL broadcasts in the country.
The ICC has emphasized that relocating matches without a credible security threat could set a dangerous precedent, potentially compromising the integrity of future tournaments.
Under the current schedule, Bangladesh is drawn in Group C. Their first three matches are set in Kolkata against West Indies on February 7, Italy on February 9, and England on February 14. The group stage will conclude with a match against Nepal in Mumbai on February 17.
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With the clock ticking ahead of the February 7 start, Pakistan’s potential boycott underscores the complexities of hosting multinational events amid political tensions, leaving cricket fans anxious about the participation of two of Asia’s top teams.