A crucial decision regarding Pakistan’s participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is expected within the coming days, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed on Monday. The mega event is scheduled to be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka, starting on February 7, 2026.
Mohsin Naqvi shared the update through his official social media account following a high-level meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. According to the PCB chairman, the discussion focused primarily on matters related to the ICC and Pakistan’s stance on the upcoming tournament.
Naqvi described the meeting as productive and revealed that the prime minister instructed the PCB to keep all possible options open before reaching a final decision. He added that both sides agreed the matter would be concluded either by Friday or early next week, providing much-needed clarity amid growing speculation.
The uncertainty surrounding Pakistan’s participation has intensified after the ICC reportedly replaced Bangladesh with Scotland for the tournament. Bangladesh had declined to travel to India, citing security concerns, a move that sparked significant debate within the cricketing community. The decision has reportedly unsettled the PCB, which has openly supported Bangladesh’s position during the dispute.
Pakistan’s situation is particularly sensitive due to long-standing political and logistical challenges related to bilateral cricket with India. Although the ICC has proposed a hybrid model for Pakistan’s matches, concerns remain regarding broader implications and future precedents.
Under the current tournament structure, Pakistan have been placed in Group A alongside India, the Netherlands, the United States, and Namibia. As per the hybrid arrangement, all of Pakistan’s group-stage matches are scheduled to take place in Sri Lanka.
Pakistan are set to begin their T20 World Cup campaign against the Netherlands before facing the USA on February 10. The group stage is expected to peak with the highly anticipated Pakistan vs India clash on February 15, a fixture that traditionally attracts massive global viewership. Pakistan will conclude their group matches against Namibia on February 18.
The knockout stage arrangements add another layer of complexity. If Pakistan qualify for the semi-finals and final, both matches will be played in Colombo. However, if Pakistan fail to progress, the remaining knockout fixtures will take place in Indian cities, including Kolkata and Ahmedabad.
Earlier, Mohsin Naqvi had clarified that the final call on participation does not rest solely with the PCB and will ultimately be made by the federal government. This statement reinforced the seriousness of the matter and highlighted the need for a carefully considered decision.
With the tournament fast approaching, fans, players, and officials alike are awaiting a definitive announcement. The PCB’s decision is expected to have significant implications not only for Pakistan cricket but also for future ICC event arrangements involving hybrid hosting models.
All eyes are now on the federal government as Pakistan prepares to announce its final stance on the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Read More: Mohsin Naqvi on Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026
