The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to announce a final decision on whether the national team will participate in the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup following an urgent meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed on Sunday that the outcome would be communicated after discussions with the Prime Minister.
Addressing the media, Naqvi expressed Pakistan’s opposition to what he described as the “dual standards” of the International Cricket Council (ICC). “Pakistan has always stood for the principles of cricket,” he stated. “Supporting Bangladesh in this matter is part of adhering to those principles.”
Naqvi also met with the selected players and team management in Lahore ahead of the World Cup. He emphasised that any decision taken by the government regarding participation would be fully implemented by the PCB.
“Politicising cricket serves no one,” Naqvi said. “All parties must respect the principles of the game.” He referred to the ICC’s decision to replace Bangladesh with Scotland in the tournament, a move prompted by Bangladesh declining to travel to India due to security concerns.
The PCB chairman further stated that Pakistan’s players had expressed full support for the board’s stance. “Success comes from team effort and the players’ skill and determination,” he said, praising the squad’s preparation and fighting spirit.
Explaining Pakistan’s support for Bangladesh, Naqvi remarked, “No country should impose conditions on another. Cricket must remain free of politics.” He described the ICC’s decision as a reflection of double standards.
The PCB has already finalised the Pakistan squad for the T20 World Cup. Led by captain Salman Ali Agar, the team includes Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Shadab Khan.
The 2026 ICC T20 World Cup will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka, commencing on 7 February. Scotland has been placed in Group C, alongside West Indies, Italy, England, and Nepal. Pakistan will play all their group-stage matches in Sri Lanka.
Pakistan T20 World Cup Squad – Key Players
| Role | Player | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Captain | Salman Ali Agar | Leads the squad |
| Batsman | Babar Azam | Star batsman |
| Batsman | Fakhar Zaman | Explosive opener |
| Bowler | Shaheen Shah Afridi | Leading fast bowler |
| All-rounder | Shadab Khan | Spin all-rounder |
The PCB’s decision following Monday’s Prime Ministerial meeting is eagerly awaited, as cricket fans across Pakistan anticipate clarity on the nation’s participation in the upcoming global tournament.