Politics and cricket have once again clashed over the T20 World Cup 2026. Pakistan has made it clear that it will not make any hasty decisions.
Following Bangladesh’s withdrawal from the tournament, discussions have intensified within Pakistan about whether to play the high-voltage match against India or boycott it.
A crucial meeting on this issue was held between Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi.
PCB’s Big Hint After Meeting with the PM
After the meeting in Islamabad, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi clearly stated that all options would be kept open. He shared information about the meeting on social media, writing, “I had a productive meeting with the Prime Minister and briefed him on the ICC matter. He directed that we resolve it while keeping all options on the table.”
Naqvi further added, “It was agreed that the final decision will be taken either on Friday or next Monday.”
This means Pakistan will decide by Friday or next Monday whether or not it will participate in the T20 World Cup. The PCB has already stated that the final decision in this matter will be taken by the central government.
According to reports, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has asked the PCB to fully support Bangladesh. Bangladesh was recently withdrawn from the tournament, which further deepened the entire controversy.
The Pakistani government was informed of various options, including completely withdrawing from the tournament or boycotting the match against India.
The Entire Equation Changed After Bangladesh’s Exit
Bangladesh had requested to shift its matches to Sri Lanka citing security concerns, which the ICC rejected. The ICC stated that there was no credible threat in India.
Following this, Bangladesh was withdrawn from the tournament and replaced by Scotland.
Pakistan’s T20 World Cup schedule is already set. The team is scheduled to begin its campaign against the Netherlands on February 7th, followed by matches against the USA on February 10th, India on February 15th, and Namibia on February 18th. There is the most tension surrounding this India match.
The PCB also announced its 15-member squad on Sunday. Babar Azam is included in the team, but Haris Rauf has not been given a place. This time, Salman Ali Agha has been appointed captain.
Currently, the whole world’s eyes are on Pakistan’s decision, which could change the landscape of the T20 World Cup in the coming days.
