Lahore — Delegations from the International Cricket Council and the Bangladesh Cricket Board arrived in Lahore on Sunday for discussions aimed at addressing an ongoing dispute linked to the T20 World Cup, officials said.

The visit comes amid heightened tensions surrounding the tournament after Bangladesh was excluded following disagreements over match venues and security concerns. The issue has also drawn in other cricketing nations, making it a key challenge for the ICC as it seeks to maintain consensus among member boards.

According to officials, ICC Deputy Chairman Imran Khawaja was received at Lahore Airport by Adviser to the Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Aamer Mir. Bangladesh Cricket Board President Aminul Islam was welcomed by Pakistan Super League Chief Executive Officer Salman Naseer.

Both Imran Khawaja and Aminul Islam are scheduled to hold meetings with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi during their stay. Officials said the talks are expected to focus on resolving differences related to the tournament and reviewing broader concerns raised by participating teams.

Background to the dispute

The controversy emerged after Bangladesh declined to send its team to India, citing security concerns, and requested that its matches be moved to Sri Lanka. The ICC rejected the request, after which Bangladesh was excluded from the tournament.

In response, Pakistan expressed solidarity with Bangladesh and announced it would boycott matches involving India in the T20 World Cup, further complicating the situation for tournament organisers.

Pakistan to boycott India at T20 World Cup in solidarity with Bangladesh: PM Shehbaz

Sources said the Lahore meetings are likely to address security arrangements, tournament logistics, and possible steps to ease tensions and prevent further disruption to the event.