T20 World Cup 2026: Pakistan delays final call after PCB chief meets Prime Minister

Mohsin Naqvi

Pakistan has postponed a final decision on their participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, following a meeting between Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday. After the discussion, Naqvi stated that the matter is still under consideration, with all options on the table, and a final decision is expected either by Friday or next Monday.

The uncertainty surrounding Pakistan’s participation comes in the wake of the International Cricket Council (ICC) removing Bangladesh from the 20-team event after the latter refused to travel to India due to security concerns. Bangladesh was subsequently replaced by Scotland, a move that has reportedly caused discontent within both the PCB and the Pakistan government.

“Had a productive meeting with the Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif. Briefed him on the ICC matter, and he directed that we resolve it while keeping all options on the table. It was agreed that the final decision will be taken either on Friday or next Monday,” Naqvi wrote on X.

According to Geo News, Pakistan may still withdraw from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with sources suggesting that the ICC’s handling of Bangladesh’s case has not gone down well in Islamabad. The report added that the central government could deny permission for the men’s team to travel if its concerns are not adequately addressed.

Pakistan is reportedly even considering skipping their group-stage match against India, scheduled for February 15 in Colombo. This is in line with an agreement between the PCB, BCCI, and ICC, under which all India-Pakistan matches until 2027 are to be played at neutral venues.

Despite the ongoing uncertainty, Pakistan named a 15-member squad for the T20 World Cup on Sunday, with Salman Ali Agha leading the side. However, PCB chairman clarified that the squad announcement should not be interpreted as confirmation of participation. He emphasised that government clearance is mandatory, especially for events involving India.

Naqvi has consistently maintained that the PCB is awaiting the Pakistan government’s final position before making any decision. The T20 World Cup is scheduled to be held across India and Sri Lanka, starting February 7, and the ICC has set January 30 as the deadline for all participating nations to submit their final squads.