Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi has finally broken his silence on Pakistan’s participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, stating that the final decision will be taken by the federal government, not the PCB alone.
Naqvi’s remarks come amid growing uncertainty following the ICC’s decision to remove Bangladesh from the tournament and replace them with Scotland after Bangladesh refused to travel to India over security concerns.
Speaking to the media in Lahore on Saturday, the PCB chief made it clear that Pakistan would not act unilaterally in such a sensitive matter.
“The prime minister is currently not in the country. Once he returns, we will announce a final decision,” Naqvi said when asked whether Pakistan could follow Bangladesh’s path.
PCB Questions ICC’s Handling of Bangladesh Situation
Naqvi openly criticised the ICC’s approach, accusing the global governing body of applying double standards in its dealings with Bangladesh.
“Bangladesh has been treated unjustly. I raised the same point during the ICC board meeting,” he said, expressing concern over what he described as inconsistent decision-making.
The PCB chairman argued that Bangladesh, as a Full Member nation, deserved flexibility and respect.
“They are a major stakeholder in international cricket. This kind of injustice should not happen,” Naqvi added.
‘One Country Cannot Dictate Terms’
In strong comments that underline rising tensions within world cricket administration, Naqvi also hinted at the influence of the BCCI over ICC decisions, warning that Pakistan would not accept any form of external pressure.
“Bangladesh is the same ICC member as Pakistan,” he said.
“If concessions have been made in the past for certain countries, then the same approach should be applied to Bangladesh.”
Naqvi made it clear that Pakistan would take a firm stance if it felt its autonomy was being undermined.
“One country cannot dictate terms to another. And if any such attempt is made, Pakistan will take its own clear stance.”
Pakistan’s Position Still Unclear
While speculation continues over a possible boycott, the PCB chairman stopped short of confirming any immediate action, reiterating that the matter remains under consultation at the highest level of government.
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to run from February 7 to March 8, with matches hosted across India and Sri Lanka.
With Bangladesh already out and political pressure mounting, Pakistan’s final call could have far-reaching implications for the tournament — and for the ICC’s governance credibility.
