As uncertainty continues to surround Pakistan’s participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup, several former cricketers and ex-board officials have urged the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to take a pragmatic call and avoid straining ties with the International Cricket Council (ICC). While Pakistan has openly supported Bangladesh amid their exclusion from the tournament, many believe that withdrawing from the World Cup would do more harm than good to Pakistan cricket.
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has stated that a final decision on Pakistan’s participation will be taken by Friday or Monday. The delay follows Bangladesh’s removal from the tournament after they refused to travel to India for group-stage matches, citing security concerns. However, voices within Pakistan’s cricketing ecosystem are growing louder, urging the board to prioritise national interests over symbolic gestures.
Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez strongly feels that Pakistan must compete in the World Cup, stressing that major ICC events are vital for players and the country’s cricketing future. Echoing similar sentiments, former PCB chairman Khalid Mahmood and ex-board secretary Arif Ali Abbasi questioned the logic behind skipping the tournament.
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“I understand Pakistan’s support for Bangladesh, but what does PCB gain by not sending its team except damaging relations with the ICC and other member boards?” Abbasi said. Drawing from his experience of working alongside respected administrators like Jagmohan Dalmiya and IS Bindra, Abbasi emphasised that Pakistan’s absence could also financially impact Sri Lanka, which is scheduled to host all of Pakistan’s matches, including the high-profile clash against India.
Mahmood acknowledged the PCB’s principled stand but urged the board to remain realistic. He pointed out that Pakistan stood alone in backing Bangladesh, with no other cricket board supporting their demand during the ICC meeting. “Supporting Bangladesh is understandable, but decisions must ultimately benefit Pakistan cricket,” he noted.
Former head coach and chief selector Mohsin Khan also advised against withdrawal, highlighting that Pakistan’s matches are slated to be played in Sri Lanka, not India. “If Bangladesh themselves are not appealing the ICC decision, on what grounds should Pakistan pull out? It will only hurt our cricket,” he warned.
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Senior former players Inzamam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Yousuf suggested that the PCB weigh all factors carefully before taking a final call. Inzamam said Pakistan’s presence at global events is crucial. “We have talented players, and our cricket needs strong performances in big tournaments,” he remarked.
Former Test batter Haroon Rasheed believes Pakistan will eventually participate, as there is no substantial reason to opt out. “Supporting Bangladesh was the right gesture, but now it’s time to focus on Pakistan’s cricketing interests,” he concluded.
