PCB Chief Meets PM Shehbaz on T20 World Cup Participation

January 26, 2026

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad on Monday to discuss Pakistan’s participation in the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The meeting, held amid rising uncertainty over the nation’s involvement in the tournament, comes after controversy surrounding the withdrawal of Bangladesh from the event.

Decision on Participation Still Pending

Following the meeting, Naqvi confirmed that a final decision on Pakistan’s participation will be made later this week either by Friday, January 30 or Monday, February 2. Although Pakistan has already named a squad for the event, the decision remains subject to government directives and ongoing consultations.

Background: Bangladesh Pullout Spurs Debate

The uncertainty stems from Bangladesh’s withdrawal from the T20 World Cup, which was co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, after the Bangladesh Cricket Board cited security concerns about playing matches in India. The International Cricket Council (ICC) maintained the original schedule and replaced Bangladesh with Scotland in the tournament lineup, prompting criticism from the PCB.

PCB’s Stand and Player Reactions

Before his meeting with the prime minister, Naqvi met with Pakistan’s T20 World Cup squad and coach to brief them on the situation and policy stance. Reports indicate that players have expressed support for the board’s approach and emphasized their readiness to follow government advice on participation.

The PCB chief has publicly criticized the ICC’s decision to replace Bangladesh, suggesting double standards and calling for equitable treatment of all member boards.

Government to Call the Final Shot

Naqvi emphasized that the Pakistani government would make the final call on whether the national team will play in the T20 World Cup. He reportedly briefed the prime minister thoroughly on the issue, and both sides agreed to keep all options on the table before concluding on participation.

This stance reflects the PCB’s aim to align its sporting decisions with national policy and diplomatic considerations, given the sensitive regional dynamics and historic tensions involved.

Implications for the Tournament

Pakistan is scheduled to play matches in Sri Lanka as part of the World Cup, including a marquee clash against India on February 15. The ongoing deliberations have stirred uncertainty not only within Pakistan’s cricketing circles but also among fans and stakeholders across the subcontinent and beyond.

The final decision now hinges on the government’s directive, and cricket watchers will be keenly watching announcements as the February 7 tournament start date approaches.