The International Cricket Council (ICC) has kept Bangladesh on standby amid growing uncertainty over Pakistan’s participation in the T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to begin next month.
The situation follows a delay in the final decision by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), citing ongoing consultations at the highest level of government.
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed on Monday that a decision on Pakistan’s participation has been postponed. After meeting Pakistan Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, Naqvi stated that the final call would be taken either on Friday or next Monday.
ICC’s Contingency Plan Involving Bangladesh
According to officials familiar with the matter, Pakistan is unlikely to withdraw entirely from the tournament. However, the ICC has prepared a contingency plan in case such a scenario unfolds.
“If Pakistan decides to pull out, Bangladesh would be asked to replace them in Group A and play all their matches in Sri Lanka, as originally requested by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB),” an official said. “This arrangement would involve minimal logistical disruption.”
This move would also allow the ICC to avoid the perception of conceding to Bangladesh’s earlier security concerns about playing matches in India. Instead, Bangladesh’s return would be framed as a consequence of Pakistan’s withdrawal.
Background: Bangladesh Replaced by Scotland
On January 24, the ICC had replaced Bangladesh with Scotland in Group C after the BCB declined to play its matches in India, citing security reasons. The decision was taken after the ICC Board voted down Bangladesh’s request for venue changes.
PCB Weighs Alternative Options
With limited grounds for a full withdrawal, the PCB is reportedly exploring other options. One possibility under consideration is boycotting the high-profile Group A match against India, scheduled for February 15 in Colombo, and forfeiting points.
Such a move could significantly impact broadcasters and sponsors. ICC officials have warned that refusing to play could have serious consequences, as the hybrid hosting model was finalised at PCB’s insistence. “By not playing, Pakistan would be violating an agreement they were instrumental in negotiating,” an official noted.
Other symbolic options reportedly being discussed include players wearing black armbands during matches.
BCCI Reacts
Reacting to the developments, BCCI vice-president Rajiv Shukla said the Indian board had wanted Bangladesh to participate and had assured full security.
“Since Bangladesh chose not to play, it became very difficult to change the schedule at the last moment. That is why Scotland was brought in,” Shukla told ANI. He also criticised Pakistan’s involvement in the matter, calling it unnecessary.
Decision Awaited
Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as Pakistan’s interior minister, later posted on X that all options remain open and consultations are ongoing. The cricketing world now awaits the PCB’s final decision, which could have a significant impact on the tournament’s structure and dynamics.
