Pakistan have delayed taking a final call on their participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The decision was discussed during a meeting between Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday.
After the meeting, Naqvi said the matter is still under review. He added that all options remain open. A final decision is expected either by Friday or next Monday.
The uncertainty comes soon after the ICC removed Bangladesh from the tournament. Bangladesh refused to travel to India due to security concerns. Scotland were named as their replacement in the 20-team event.
Government clearance key for Pakistan decision
Mohsin Naqvi later shared details of the meeting on social media.
“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 a report by Geo News, Pakistan could still pull out of the T20 World Cup. Sources said the ICC’s handling of Bangladesh’s situation has not gone down well with the PCB and the Pakistan government.
The report also claimed that the federal government may refuse to grant permission for the men’s team to travel. This could happen if Pakistan’s concerns are not addressed by the ICC.
Pakistan are also said to be considering skipping their group-stage match against India. The match is scheduled for February 15 in Colombo. Under an existing agreement, all India-Pakistan matches until 2027 are to be played at neutral venues.
Despite the uncertainty, Pakistan announced a 15-member squad on Sunday. Salman Ali Agha was named captain.
However, Naqvi clarified that naming the squad does not confirm participation. He stressed that government approval is compulsory, especially for tournaments involving India.
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 will be held in India and Sri Lanka from February 7. The ICC has set January 30 as the deadline for final squad submissions.
