In a move that has shocked the international cricket community Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Currently on the verge of historic boycott 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. pcb chairman Mohsin Naqvi, After a high-level consultation with PakistanPrime Minister of Shahbaz Sharifhas placed national team participation on “pause” citing solidarity bangladesh. The ICC’s decision to include Scotland in place of Bangladesh has sparked controversy after they refused to play the match in India due to security concerns.
While the PCB presents its possible withdrawal as a principled stand against unfair treatment by fellow Asian boards, the strategy has stoked a fierce internal fire. High-profile cricket legends are also included inzamam-ul-haq, Muhammad Hafeez And Mohammad Yusuf Now he is leading the voice of dissent and urging the board to prioritize the health of Pakistan cricket over regional power play.
PCB’s solidarity stance invites risk of isolation
The core of the controversy lies in PCB’s vocal support Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB)which requested to move its group-stage matches India To Sri Lanka. When the ICC rejected the appeal and subsequently expelled Bangladesh from the tournament, Naqvi suggested that Pakistan, the only country to support Bangladesh’s demand, could also follow suit.
However, former officials and players see little logic in this nuclear option. Former PCB Secretary Arif Ali Abbasi Pointing to the self-defeating nature of the threat, given that since Pakistan’s matches are already scheduled in Sri Lanka under the hybrid model, there is no direct security conflict for the Men in Green.
“Apart from damaging relations with the ICC and member boards, what purpose will the PCB serve by not sending its team?Abbasi raised questions in a press briefing, saying such a move would also economically cripple long-term ally Sri Lanka.
former chairman Khalid Mahmood Echoing these concerns, the stance was laudable in theory but senseless in practice. He reminded the current administration that no other board supported Bangladesh, leaving Pakistan in a precarious position of potential global isolation.
Also read: Babar Azam returns, Haris Rauf dropped from Pakistan’s squad for T20 World Cup 2026
Inzamam-ul-Haq and Muhammad Hafeez warn of irreparable damage to Pakistan cricket
There has been a swift and grassroots reaction from former captains in the long-term development of the game. Inzamam, Hafeez and Yousuf stressed that the World Cup is the final stage for Pakistan’s emerging talent. “Our cricket needs to see its team performing well in big events” Inzamam said, suggesting that the boycott would take away the opportunity for glory for a generation of players.
Furthermore, the financial and disciplinary stakes are unprecedented. The ICC has reportedly indicated that Pakistan will face severe sanctions if it withdraws, including:
- Ban on foreign players participating in Pakistan Super League (PSL).
- Suspension of bilateral series and significant reduction in ICC revenue shares.
- Boycott from future major events including Asia Cup.
former test batsman mohsin khan That sums up the sentiments of many, given that BCB has also accepted its fate without any legal challenge. “Then on what basis will PCB not send its team? This will be bad for our cricket,He warned.
The final decision is expected by this Friday or next Monday, leaving the cricket world in a dilemma. As the February 7 kick-off approaches, the PCB will have to decide whether a show of regional solidarity is worth risking Pakistan’s international standing.
Also read: After Bangladesh, will Pakistan also boycott T20 World Cup 2026? Mohsin Naqvi broke his silence
