Pakistan’s participation in the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup continues to hang in the balance, with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) yet to take a final call amid growing political, legal and financial complexities. The uncertainty intensified after Scotland replaced Bangladesh in Group C, a development that has reportedly triggered serious deliberations at the highest level of Pakistan’s government and cricket administration.
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi recently met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to discuss Pakistan’s position, and an official announcement is expected later this week. However, multiple reports suggest that the PCB is keeping the option of boycotting the tournament — or selective matches — firmly on the table while carefully assessing the broader consequences of such a move.
According to a report by Telecom Asia Sport, Pakistan’s decision could hinge on the team’s performance in their opening two group matches against the Netherlands on February 7 and the USA on February 10. If the Men in Green win both fixtures, sources claim the PCB may consider forfeiting their high-voltage clash against India, scheduled for February 15 in Colombo.
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“If Pakistan win both these games, then the chance of forfeiture against India will be strong,” a source was quoted as saying, underlining how on-field results could directly influence off-field decisions.
That said, the PCB is unlikely to rush into a final verdict. A clearer picture is expected only after the conclusion of Pakistan’s three-match T20I series against Australia in Lahore, with Monday being seen as a potential decision day.
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.#T20WorldCup2026 #MohsinNaqvi https://t.co/RA2EaspR1T— Republic (@republic) January 28, 2026
Alongside this, the PCB is preparing to formally approach the ICC to register its protest over Bangladesh’s removal from the tournament. The board is also considering a symbolic protest during the World Cup to make its stance clear without triggering immediate punitive action.
However, a full boycott appears increasingly complicated. PCB’s legal advisors have reportedly cautioned Naqvi about the serious financial and legal fallout, particularly concerning broadcast obligations.
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“There is a $3 billion broadcast deal in place with JioStar Sports that runs until 2027,” a source noted, adding that skipping marquee matches — especially against India — could lead broadcasters to seek compensation through legal channels. Such a scenario could result in financial penalties not just for Pakistan, but for all ICC member boards due to shared revenue structures.
As things stand, Pakistan’s World Cup participation remains uncertain, with cricketing ambitions, political messaging and financial realities all pulling in different directions.
