ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is considering a withdrawal from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 after Bangladesh was denied the opportunity to play matches in Sri Lanka, prompting concerns in Islamabad over perceived double standards by the International Cricket Council.
Read More: Pakistan names strong squad for T20 world cup
Highly placed sources told The News that the federal government may block the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) from sending the national team to the World Cup, which is jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka. The issue stems from the ICC replacing Bangladesh with Scotland after the former cited security concerns regarding matches in Sri Lanka—a decision Islamabad views as unfair and discriminatory.
A final decision is expected following a meeting on Monday between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. “The final decision rests with the prime minister, but early indications suggest that the government may not allow Pakistan to participate,” said a senior official. The source added, “Bangladesh has been deprived of its legitimate right, and the ICC’s step-motherly treatment has forced Pakistan to seriously rethink its participation.”
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has expressed strong dismay over the council’s handling of the matter, noting that replacing Bangladesh with Scotland undermines fairness and the spirit of the game. He reiterated that the PCB will follow government directives.
Pakistan’s cricketers have voiced full support for the PCB and the government, stating that their participation will align strictly with federal guidance. Analysts say Pakistan’s potential withdrawal could send shockwaves through international cricket, raising broader questions about governance, neutrality, and consistency in international sports administration.
Read More: PCB awaits govt’s nod on T20 World Cup boycott as ICC expels
The controversy highlights tensions over how global sporting bodies address security, venue allocations, and equitable treatment of all participating nations.