New Delhi (January 28, 2026): Indian media reports have claimed that the International Cricket Council (ICC) has asked Bangladesh to remain prepared amid fears that Pakistan could boycott the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
According to Indian media, the ICC is considering contingency plans in case Pakistan decides not to participate in the mega event. The reports suggest that Bangladesh could be offered Pakistan’s slot in the tournament if Islamabad withdraws.
These claims have surfaced at a time when uncertainty surrounds the World Cup due to security concerns, venue disputes, and the hybrid hosting model involving India and Sri Lanka.
It may be recalled that Bangladesh had earlier expressed serious reservations over player security in India and requested the ICC to shift its matches to Sri Lanka. However, instead of considering the request, the ICC reportedly excluded Bangladesh from the tournament and included Scotland as a replacement.
Pakistan reacted strongly to the ICC’s decision, terming it biased and non-neutral, and expressed solidarity with Bangladesh. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi subsequently stated that Pakistan’s participation in the World Cup would be subject to government approval.
On Tuesday, Mohsin Naqvi met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to brief him on the evolving situation. Sources say a final decision on Pakistan’s participation is expected by Friday or Monday.
The ICC T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to be held from February 7 to March 8, with India and Sri Lanka as joint hosts. Under the hybrid model, Pakistan is set to play all its matches in Sri Lanka.
The highly anticipated Pakistan vs India match, considered the biggest fixture of the tournament, is scheduled for February 15 in Colombo. Media reports suggest that ICC events derive nearly 60 percent of their total revenue from Pakistan-India encounters, highlighting the match’s commercial significance.
