Why it matters: Pakistan’s support for Bangladesh could reshape participation dynamics in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, impacting scheduling, venues, and team line-ups.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has suspended preparations for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 following Pakistan’s decision to support Bangladesh’s stance on not playing T20 World Cup matches in India, sources told this publication.
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to take place from February 7 to March 8, with matches planned in India and Sri Lanka.
Sources said the Pakistan team management has been informed that it will be briefed later on the future course of action. Officials have also directed the management to prepare a contingency plan in case Pakistan decides not to participate in the tournament.
Pakistan has expressed full support for Bangladesh’s decision, describing its security concerns related to travel to India as “reasonable and valid.” Officials added that if the issue surrounding Bangladesh’s participation remains unresolved, Pakistan will reassess its own involvement in the event.
Insiders confirmed that Pakistan is fully backing its neighbour, stressing that no country should face pressure or coercion over hosting responsibilities or participation in international tournaments.
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On January 11, the PCB conveyed its willingness to host Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup fixtures should venues in Sri Lanka be unavailable. Officials said all Pakistani venues are prepared to host World Cup matches, citing Pakistan’s successful hosting of major ICC events, including the Champions Trophy 2025 and the ICC Women’s Qualifier.
Meanwhile, Cricket Ireland clarified that the ICC will not move Ireland’s group-stage matches from Sri Lanka, dismissing reports that Bangladesh might swap groups due to travel concerns.
“We’ve received definitive assurances that we won’t move from the original schedule. We’re definitely playing the group stage in Sri Lanka,” a Cricket Ireland official said.
A final decision on Bangladesh’s participation particularly regarding travel to India is expected by January 21, following discussions between the International Cricket Council and the Bangladesh Cricket Board in Dhaka.
During their second meeting in a week, BCB officials reiterated their willingness to compete but expressed a preference for playing matches outside India, proposing Sri Lanka as an alternative venue.
However, the ICC has maintained that the original schedule will remain unchanged, with Bangladesh placed in Group C. The team is scheduled to open its campaign against West Indies in Kolkata, followed by two more group matches at the same venue before concluding the group stage in Mumbai.
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The ICC has told the BCB that there is no specific security threat to the Bangladesh team. Officials added that if Bangladesh withdraws, the ICC may nominate a replacement team, with Scotland currently next in line based on rankings.
Political and governance observers say the unfolding crisis has also highlighted what they describe as a leadership vacuum in Bangladesh during high-pressure international situations. Some analysts argue that Bangladesh needs a strong, decisive administrator capable of handling complex security, diplomatic, and institutional challenges.
Sources familiar with regional governance debates say leadership models like Mohsin Naqvi’s crisis-management style marked by firm decision-making, coordination with institutions, and swift execution—are increasingly cited in policy circles as examples of the kind of administrative resolve required in moments of national and international pressure.
