Pakistan’s participation in the ICC T20 World Cup hangs in the balance as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to hold a crucial meeting today with Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, a discussion that could determine whether the national team competes in the tournament or opts out altogether.
Sources say the high-level meeting will focus on Pakistan’s official stance, including the sensitive issue of playing against arch-rivals India. Any final decision regarding participation will be taken on the prime minister’s directives, with the PCB bound to implement the government’s position.
Tensions have escalated following what PCB officials describe as India’s uncompromising approach and the International Cricket Council’s controversial decision to exclude Bangladesh from the T20 World Cup. The move has triggered strong resentment within the PCB, with sources indicating that Pakistan is actively considering all options, including a possible withdrawal, citing alleged bias and double standards by the ICC.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has reiterated that Pakistan’s position is based on principle rather than politics. Addressing national team players, he said the PCB supported Bangladesh on the “golden principles of cricket” and warned against politicising the sport. He also briefed the squad on the evolving World Cup situation and received their full backing.
Despite the uncertainty, Naqvi wished the team success for the upcoming Pakistan–Australia T20 series. As speculation intensifies, today’s meeting is expected to be pivotal, with potential repercussions for international cricket.
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