In a significant move ahead of the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has temporarily suspended all preparations for the tournament. Multiple sources within the board confirmed the development to Geo Super on Monday. The World Cup is scheduled to be held from 7 February to 8 March, jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
According to insiders, the PCB will soon instruct its team management on the next steps while simultaneously formulating a contingency plan. This alternative strategy is intended to address scenarios in which Pakistan may reconsider its participation in the tournament.
The board has expressed full support for Bangladesh’s recent decision to decline travelling to India, citing security concerns. PCB officials have described Bangladesh’s apprehensions as “rational and legitimate.” Sources emphasised that if the issues surrounding Bangladesh’s participation remain unresolved, Pakistan will also reevaluate its involvement in the World Cup.
A senior official noted, “No country should be pressured or threatened regarding participation or hosting responsibilities. Pakistan stands firmly by Bangladesh in this matter.”
Earlier developments highlight Pakistan’s proactive approach in hosting World Cup matches. On 11 January, the PCB stated that if Sri Lanka is unable to provide venues, Pakistan is ready to host Bangladesh’s matches. The board underscored its readiness by referencing successful past events, including the 2025 Champions Trophy and ICC Women’s Qualifiers.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh proposed a swap of group matches with Ireland to address scheduling issues. However, Cricket Ireland confirmed that the group stage fixtures in Sri Lanka would not be altered. “We have received firm assurances that the schedule remains unchanged. The group stage will be played entirely in Sri Lanka,” an official said.
The ICC and Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) have set a deadline of 21 January for Bangladesh’s final decision on participation. Recent meetings in Dhaka have indicated that while Bangladesh is willing to compete, it prefers venues outside India, with Sri Lanka being proposed as an alternative. The ICC has affirmed that no changes to the tournament schedule will be made.
| Key Updates on Bangladesh & Pakistan | Details |
|---|---|
| World Cup Dates | 7 Feb – 8 Mar 2026 |
| Hosts | India & Sri Lanka |
| Bangladesh First Match | Kolkata vs West Indies |
| Subsequent Matches | Same venue in Kolkata |
| Final Group Match | Mumbai |
| PCB Stance | Supports Bangladesh; may reconsider participation |
| Venue Backup | Pakistan ready to host Bangladesh matches |
| ICC Security Assessment | No specific threats identified; contingency plans include Scotland as replacement team if Bangladesh withdraws |
The ICC has also indicated that no specific security threats have been identified for Bangladesh in India. However, should Bangladesh refuse to travel, Scotland may be considered as a replacement team based on rankings.
This evolving situation underscores regional solidarity, with Pakistan positioning itself as a supportive neighbour while navigating complex logistical and security challenges ahead of one of cricket’s premier tournaments.