Former Pakistan batsman Basit Ali has said that Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi’s recent threat to withdraw from the T20 World Cup has upset the International Cricket Council (ICC) and broadcasters. Basit said there were massive financial stakes involved, especially around the high-profile India-Pakistan match.
After Bangladesh’s withdrawal from the T20 World Cup 2026, the focus has now shifted to Pakistan’s situation. The PCB had earlier assured Bangladesh of its support, raising questions whether it would take a similar step. Mohsin Naqvi said that Pakistan government will decide on Pakistan’s participation.
Something shook the world – Basit Ali on Mohsin Naqvi’s threat to withdraw from T20 World Cup
Speaking on the Game Plan YouTube show, Basit Ali shared his views on Mohsin Naqvi’s recent comments. He said Naqvi’s press conference comments have created serious complications for the ICC, as they have obscured Pakistan’s involvement.
Basit Ali said in the ‘Game Plan’ YouTube show, “The world has been shaken by what Mohsin Naqvi said in the press conference. He said that we will ask the government about our participation.”
“The wording he used is not easy for the ICC now. Pakistan should not be boycotted because we don’t have to play in India, but what if our government tells us that we need to stand in solidarity with Bangladesh? What then?” He added.
If Pakistan withdraws… – Basit Ali
Basit Ali warned that Pakistan’s withdrawal from the World Cup would have a serious impact on broadcasters. He said that no replacement team could match the viewership of the match between India and Pakistan.
“If Pakistan doesn’t play the World Cup, the broadcasters will hit the streets. If Pakistan pulls out, which team will replace them? If India has to play against the replacement team, will that game attract the same amount of attention as an India vs Pakistan match?” He added.
India and Pakistan placed in Group A in T20 World Cup 2026
India and Pakistan have been placed in Group A along with Namibia, Netherlands and USA. Both the teams are scheduled to face each other on February 15 in Colombo.
Pakistan has announced its T20 World Cup team, in which Salman Ali Aga has been made the captain. Babar Azam is part of the 15-man squad, while Haris Rauf was dropped after a poor performance in the Asia Cup. Mohammad Rizwan was also not selected.
Pakistan will begin its T20 World Cup 2026 campaign against Netherlands at the Sinhalese Sports Club Cricket Ground. Before the tournament, they will play a three-match T20I series against Australia from Thursday, January 29.
Pakistan’s withdrawal will be a major blow to the ICC, as India-Pakistan matches generate revenue of around $500 million. However, Pakistan may face financial penalties if it withdraws, as the matches are already scheduled at neutral venues.
Last year, the ICC had decided that India-Pakistan matches in ICC events from 2024 to 2027 will be played at neutral venues. Last year, India played the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 matches in Dubai, UAE.
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