The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly preparing to send a second letter to the International Cricket Council (ICC), expressing its disappointment over Bangladesh’s exclusion from the T20 World Cup and the governing body’s handling of the situation.
Earlier this month, the PCB had written to the ICC on the eve of the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s (BCB) deadline to confirm its participation, voicing support for Bangladesh’s concerns over traveling to India amid security apprehensions. The PCB was reportedly the only ICC member to formally back Bangladesh.
According to Telecom Asia Sport, the PCB will now formally convey its displeasure to the ICC and inform the body of its intention to stage a symbolic protest during the tournament, should Pakistan take part.
“Pakistan Cricket Board is also due to write a letter to the ICC about the protest during the World Cup,” sources told the publication.
Subject to government approval, Pakistan players are expected to wear black armbands during matches as a mark of protest against the ICC’s decision.
PCB’s previous support and options under consideration
The PCB had earlier sent a letter to the ICC, copied to all other member boards, in which it:
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Expressed solidarity with Bangladesh, citing security concerns that led to their request for an alternate venue.
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Offered Pakistan as a potential host for Bangladesh’s group-stage matches.
The PCB is currently awaiting a final decision from the Pakistan government regarding the team’s participation in the T20 World Cup. Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi met the Prime Minister earlier this week to discuss several options:
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Complete boycott of the tournament
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Forfeiting the India match only
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Wearing black armbands as a protest
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Dedicating wins to Bangladesh cricket supporters, as reported by local media
A final announcement is expected on Monday.
Allegations of ICC double standards
Naqvi has previously criticized the ICC for “double standards”, highlighting that India’s request to host Champions Trophy matches in Dubai last year was approved, while Bangladesh’s security concerns were dismissed.
“You can’t have double standards. You can’t say for one country they can do whatever they want, and for others, the complete opposite,” Naqvi said.
“Bangladesh has been treated unjustly. They are a major stakeholder and should be allowed to play in the World Cup.”
The situation has sparked widespread debate in cricketing circles, with fans and former players weighing in on Pakistan’s stance and the ICC’s decision-making process.
