In a move that shocked the international cricket community Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is currently teetering on the edge of a historic boycott 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. PCB chairman Mohsen Naqvi, after a high-stakes consultation with Pakistan‘s prime minister Shehbaz SharifHe put the participation of the national team “on hold” on the basis of his solidarity with Bangladesh. The row stems from the ICC’s decision to replace Bangladesh with Scotland as the former refused to play in India due to security concerns.
Although the PCB presented its potential withdrawal as a principled stand against the unfair treatment of an Asian board, the strategy caused a fierce internal storm. Including high profile cricket legends Inzamma-Streat, Muhammad Hafiz and Muhammad Yusuf now they are leading a chorus of dissent urging the board to prioritize the health of Pakistan cricket over regional power plays.
PCB’s stance of solidarity invites the risk of isolation
The crux of the controversy lies in PCB’s vocal support Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB)which necessitated the rescheduling of his group stage matches India for Sri Lanka. When the ICC rejected the appeal and subsequently banned Bangladesh from the tournament, Naqvi suggested that Pakistan, the only country to support Bangladesh’s demand, could follow suit.
But former officials and players see little logic in this nuclear option. Former PCB Secretary Arif Ali Abbasi noting the self-defeating nature of the threat, noting that there was no direct security conflict for the Men in Green as Pakistan’s games were already scheduled in Sri Lanka under the hybrid model.
“What purpose will the PCB achieve by not sending its team other than spoiling relations with the ICC and member boards?Abbasi stressed in a press briefing that such a move would financially cripple Sri Lanka, a long-term ally.
Former chairman Khalid Mahmoud Echoing these concerns, he described the position as admirable in theory but meaningless in practice. He reminded the current administration that no other board has supported Bangladesh, leaving Pakistan in a position of potential global isolation.
Also READ: Babar Azam returns, Haris Rauf announces squad for Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026
Inzamam-ul-Haq and Muhammad Hafeez warn of irreparable damage to Pakistan cricket
The withdrawal of former captains was swift and based on the long-term development of the sport. Inzamam, Hafeez and Yousuf stressed that the World Cup is the ultimate platform for Pakistan’s rising talent. “Our cricket should see our team perform well in big events“,” Inzamam suggested the boycott would rob a generation of players of their chance at glory.
Moreover, the financial and disciplinary risks are unprecedented. The ICC has reportedly hinted at severe sanctions if Pakistan withdraws, including:
- Ban on participation of foreign players Pakistan Super League (PSL).
- Suspension of bilateral series and significant cut in ICC revenue shares.
- Exclusion from future marquee events, including the Asian Cup.
Past test dough Mohsen Khan summarizing the views of many, noting that even BCB accepted its fate without further legal challenges. “On what grounds will PCB not send its team? It will be bad for our cricket,” he warned.
With a final decision expected this Friday or next Monday, the cricketing world remains in limbo. As the February 7 kick-off approaches, the PCB must decide whether a show of regional solidarity is worth tarnishing Pakistan’s international image.
Also READ: Will Pakistan boycott T20 World Cup 2026 after Bangladesh? Mohsun Naqvi breaks the silence
