BeNewz
Related Articles
Abdullah Zahid
LAHORE: The fate of Pakistan’s involvement in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 hangs in the balance amid ongoing consultations at the highest levels of government. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi is expected to meet Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif today (Monday) to discuss the matter, following consultations with Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. Despite the squad announcement, the Million Dollar question persists: will Pakistan compete in the tournament co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka?
The uncertainty stems from the ICC’s controversial decision to exclude Bangladesh from the event. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), after consulting its government, refused to send the team to India due to security concerns. The ICC rejected requests for venue changes or a hybrid model similar to the one granted to Pakistan in past bilateral series with India. As a result, Bangladesh was replaced by Scotland, sparking widespread criticism over perceived double standards.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has firmly stated that the board rejects the ICC’s “double standards.” He emphasized that one country appears to receive preferential treatment while others face restrictions. Naqvi made it clear that the PCB will fully abide by whatever decision the Pakistani government takes on participation. “We will implement the government’s directive in letter and spirit,” he said.
Federal Minister for Information Atta Tarar confirmed that the consultative process is ongoing, and the public will be informed once a final call is made. Players have been briefed on the situation, with Naqvi assuring the squad that any outcome will be respected. In a recent meeting, national team members expressed full support for the PCB’s principled stance in solidarity with Bangladesh, guided by fairness in international cricket.
Despite the deadlock, the PCB has named a 15-member squad for the tournament, signaling preparedness while the bigger picture remains unresolved. The selection includes notable returns and some surprises, reflecting a blend of experience and youth.
Pakistan’s Announced Squad for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 include Salman Ali Agha (Captain), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf , Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman (wk), Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (wk), Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan (wk) and Usman Tariq.
Key highlights include the comeback of Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi, while several prominent names like Mohammad Rizwan and Haris Rauf are notably absent. The squad was unveiled amid the controversy, but sources indicate that preparations could be paused or adjusted based on the government’s final verdict.
The T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to begin in early 2027, with Pakistan’s matches largely expected to be hosted in Sri Lanka under the hybrid arrangement to avoid playing in India. However, the broader implications of Bangladesh’s exclusion have raised questions about equity in global cricket governance.
As consultations continue, all eyes are on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s office. A decision to participate would maintain Pakistan’s strong presence in ICC events, while a boycott could send shockwaves through international cricket, potentially inviting sanctions or further debates on bilateral relations and security protocols.
The PCB’s position underscores a commitment to principles over participation at any cost, with players standing united behind the board. The coming days will clarify whether Pakistan graces the global stage or joins the growing chorus questioning the ICC’s handling of sensitive geopolitical issues in sport.
