Pakistan takes major World Cup decision with Bangladesh’s support

In a significant development ahead of the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has temporarily suspended all preparations for the tournament. Sources within the board confirmed on Monday that while the competition is scheduled to take place from 7 February to 8 March across India and Sri Lanka, Pakistan is reconsidering its participation amid regional security concerns.

Insiders revealed that the PCB will soon issue formal instructions to its team management regarding the next steps. Simultaneously, the board has been tasked with developing contingency plans in case Pakistan ultimately decides to withdraw from the tournament.

Pakistan has publicly expressed full support for Bangladesh’s recent decision to decline travel to India for the World Cup. PCB officials described Bangladesh’s security concerns as “reasonable and realistic,” emphasising solidarity with their neighbouring cricketing nation. “If the issues surrounding Bangladesh’s participation are not resolved satisfactorily, Pakistan may reconsider its own involvement in the tournament,” a senior official noted.

The board has made it clear that no country should be pressured or threatened regarding hosting or participation decisions. Earlier this month, on 11 January, the PCB had also offered to host Bangladesh’s matches in Pakistan should Sri Lanka be unable to accommodate them. PCB representatives highlighted the board’s readiness to stage World Cup fixtures, citing the successful organisation of the 2025 Champions Trophy and ICC Women’s Qualifiers as precedent.

Meanwhile, Cricket Ireland rejected Bangladesh’s proposal to swap group-stage matches in order to avoid India. An Irish official confirmed: “We have received firm assurance that the schedule will not be altered. Our group-stage matches will proceed in Sri Lanka as planned.”

Bangladesh’s final participation decision is expected by 21 January, following recent meetings in Dhaka involving the ICC and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). Reports indicate that while Bangladesh is keen to compete in the World Cup, it prefers to play matches outside India, with Sri Lanka proposed as an alternative venue.

The ICC has reassured the BCB that there are no specific security threats to the team in India. However, should Bangladesh refuse to travel, Scotland may be selected as a replacement team based on ranking criteria.

Tentative Bangladesh T20 World Cup Schedule

This evolving situation underscores the complex intersection of sport, diplomacy, and security in South Asia, with Pakistan positioning itself as a supportive neighbour while weighing its own World Cup participation.