The drama between ICC, Bangladesh Cricket and Pakistan Cricket just isn’t stopping. What began as Bangladesh being pushed out of the T20 World Cup 2026 could yet end with the ICC calling them back not because the ICC changed its stance, but because Pakistan might walk away. That possibility has now emerged after Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi delayed a final decision on participation even after meeting Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday.
Naqvi had met the Prime Minister to seek guidance on whether Pakistan should take part in the tournament following Bangladesh’s removal. A decision was expected after the meeting, but Naqvi later posted on X that the final call would be taken either on Friday or next Monday. For now, Pakistan’s participation remains officially undecided despite the squad already being announced. They can either skip the tournament, which is unlikely, or can boycott India’s group stage match.
ICC can play uno reverse on Pakistan
According to a report from the Hindustan Times, ICC’s internal discussions is that if Pakistan withdraws from the tournament, it could open the door for Bangladesh to be reinstated, this time in Group A. If that scenario plays out, Bangladesh would be allowed to play all their matches in Sri Lanka, aligning with the BCB’s original request before they were removed.
“If Pakistan decide to withdraw, Bangladesh would be given the opportunity to replace them in Group A and play all their matches in Sri Lanka as per BCB’s original request. This arrangement would pose limited logistical challenges,” an official said to the publication.
If Pakistan were to withdraw, Bangladesh’s inclusion would stem from the vacancy created in Group A rather than a revision of the ICC’s earlier decision. Bangladesh were removed after failing to confirm participation within the ICC’s stipulated deadline despite repeated assurances and an ICC Board vote that went 14–2 against relocating their fixtures.
Pakistan prepare to retaliate
Pakistan are understood to be weighing other options apart from a full withdrawal. One proposal under discussion is a protest during their February 15 match against India in Colombo, including the possibility of wearing black armbands. There have also been reports suggesting that Pakistan could forfeit the India match, though such a move would violate the hybrid model framework that the PCB had earlier agreed upon with the ICC and the BCCI. It will also see Pakistan lose a bucket load of money.
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