The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to announce its final decision on whether the national team will participate in the 2026 T20 World Cup on Monday, following an urgent meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed on Sunday that the discussion with the Prime Minister will precede the official announcement.
Speaking to the media, Naqvi emphasised Pakistan’s commitment to cricketing principles and criticised what he described as “dual standards” by the International Cricket Council (ICC). “Pakistan has always stood for the integrity of the game,” he said. “Supporting Bangladesh in this matter is also part of upholding cricket’s fundamental values.”
Naqvi held discussions in Lahore with players and team management selected for the World Cup. He stated that any decision taken by the government would be implemented fully. “Cricket should not be politicised. All stakeholders must abide by the sport’s regulations,” he added.
The ICC recently decided to allow Scotland to participate in the World Cup after Bangladesh declined to travel to India due to security concerns. Naqvi highlighted this decision as an example of inconsistent policy, calling it a reflection of the ICC’s “dual standards.”
Pakistan’s players have expressed their full support for the PCB’s position. “Whatever decision the Board makes, we will follow it,” Naqvi reported the team saying. He praised the squad for their preparation and fighting spirit, stressing that success comes through teamwork and skill.
Following Monday’s meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the PCB is expected to issue a definitive statement regarding Pakistan’s participation. Meanwhile, the Board has finalised the World Cup squad, led by captain Salman Ali Agha, which includes stars such as Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Shadab Khan.
The 2026 T20 World Cup will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka, commencing on 7 February. Pakistan is scheduled to play all their matches in Sri Lanka, while Scotland has been placed in Group C alongside West Indies, Italy, England, and Nepal.
Pakistan T20 World Cup Squad
| Player Name | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Salman Ali Agha | Captain | Leading the squad |
| Babar Azam | Batter | Senior batsman |
| Fakhar Zaman | Batter | Aggressive opener |
| Shaheen Shah Afridi | Bowler | Leading pace attack |
| Shadab Khan | All-rounder | Key spinner and fielder |
The cricketing community now waits to see whether Pakistan will take the field at the T20 World Cup, balancing sporting principles against international cricket politics.