Pakistan’s participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 remains uncertain, with mounting criticism at home over what many believe has been a delayed and ineffective response by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). The controversy erupted after the ICC removed Bangladesh as a co-host of the tournament, a move that Pakistan publicly opposed while expressing solidarity with Bangladesh.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has confirmed that the board is still awaiting clearance from the Pakistani government before announcing a final decision. Naqvi recently met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to discuss Pakistan’s stance, indicating that an official announcement could come by Friday or early next week.
However, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has openly criticised the PCB’s handling of the issue, stating that the “time to strike has passed.” Speaking on a YouTube show, Latif argued that Pakistan should have taken a strong stand immediately after the ICC decision, rather than delaying action. According to him, any boycott or protest at this stage would carry far less impact.
Latif suggested that while a complete withdrawal from the tournament might be difficult, Pakistan could still choose not to play against India, even if the two teams were to meet in the final. He claimed that if the Pakistani government decides against playing India, the ICC would be forced to accept the decision, potentially triggering a major confrontation.
The debate has sparked sharp reactions within Pakistan’s cricketing community and among fans, many of whom feel the board missed a crucial opportunity to exert pressure at the right moment. Latif emphasised that timing is critical in international cricket politics, adding that Pakistan’s support for Bangladesh was noted, but the window for decisive action has now closed.
With the tournament set to begin on February 7, 2026, all eyes are now on the PCB and the government’s final call, which could significantly impact the tournament’s narrative and India-Pakistan cricket relations.
