In the midst of boycott controversy, Pakistan went ahead with travel arrangements

Amid intense speculation over a possible boycott of the ICC T20 World Cup in support of Bangladesh, Pakistan appears to have opted against withdrawing, according to recent reports in Indian media. Sources indicate that the Pakistan cricket team has already booked flights to Colombo, Sri Lanka, signalling their commitment to participate in the tournament.

Telecom Asia Sport reported that the squad, led by Salman Ali Agha, will travel to Colombo alongside the Australian team. This development strongly suggests that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is not planning to follow Bangladesh’s approach of considering a boycott.

Earlier, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi had stated that the board could consider boycotting the World Cup to express solidarity with Bangladesh. The issue gained prominence after Bangladesh requested a change of venue citing security concerns. However, the International Cricket Council (ICC) dismissed the request during a meeting, with a decisive 14–2 vote against the move.

Following this, Naqvi held a meeting with Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Reports indicate that while the Prime Minister expressed diplomatic support for Bangladesh, he advised against a boycott due to potential financial losses, according to Telecom Asia.

Further consultation with senior figures, including former President Asif Ali Zardari, military officials, and former PCB chairmen Najam Sethi and Ramiz Raja, reportedly persuaded the PCB to participate. Sources also suggest that Pakistan is likely to play its group-stage match against India, dismissing earlier boycott rumours.

While the PCB has not yet issued a formal announcement, the confirmation of flight bookings effectively quells the boycott speculation. A final decision from the board is expected by Friday, 30 January, or Monday, 2 February.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan team remains engaged in preparations for a three-match T20 series against Australia. Team management has reportedly been instructed to continue World Cup preparations alongside the ongoing bilateral series.

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In summary, despite strong discussions around a potential boycott in solidarity with Bangladesh, Pakistan has clearly opted to honour its World Cup commitments. The upcoming official announcement will formalise what the flight bookings already indicate: Pakistan’s participation in the ICC T20 World Cup is now almost certain.