ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – Pakistan will make a final decision on its participation in the ICC T20 World Cup within the next few days, Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has confirmed, following high-level consultations with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Speaking after a meeting in Islamabad, Naqvi said the issue of Pakistan’s participation in the T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by India, was discussed in detail with the prime minister. He briefed the premier on recent developments involving the ICC and the Bangladesh Cricket Board, as well as the broader implications for Pakistan cricket.
According to official sources, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed that the matter be resolved after considering all available options. Both sides agreed that a final decision would be taken either on Friday or early next week, likely on Monday.
Had a productive meeting with the Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif. Briefed him on the ICC matter, and he directed that we resolve it while keeping all options on the table. It was agreed that the final decision will be taken either on Friday or next Monday. pic.twitter.com/6SOvNdLceW
— Mohsin Naqvi (@MohsinnaqviC42) January 26, 2026Naqvi described the meeting as positive and constructive, stating that all aspects were being reviewed with national interests firmly in view.
Media reports quoted the PCB chairman as telling the prime minister that the ICC applies different standards for India and other member nations. He pointed out that India had earlier refused to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, citing security concerns, after which an alternative venue was arranged for Indian matches.
In contrast, Naqvi said Bangladesh declined to play its matches in India due to security concerns but was not offered a neutral venue. Instead, the team was removed from the tournament altogether. The ICC has since officially confirmed Bangladesh’s exclusion from the T20 World Cup, with Scotland named as their replacement.
Naqvi further noted that Pakistan would forfeit its participation fee if it chose not to take part in the tournament. However, he added that India would suffer a greater financial and commercial loss if a high-profile match between the two rivals did not take place.
The ICC T20 World Cup is scheduled to begin on 7 February. Pakistan’s matches in the tournament are currently scheduled to be played in Sri Lanka, despite India being the designated host nation.