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ISLAMABAD: Pakistan may reconsider its participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 following the rising tensions between India and Bangladesh, sources said on Sunday.
According to sources, Bangladesh has contacted the Pakistan government regarding participation in the mega event due to the team’s raising security concerns.
Sources added that if the matter is not resolved, Pakistan may review its decision to participate in the T20 World Cup.
Pakistan maintains that Bangladesh has valid grounds for not traveling to India and has assured full support on the matter.
Earlier, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) also offered to host Bangladesh fixtures amid the unavailability of venues in Sri Lanka due to logistical challenges.
For the unversed, the dispute escalated following recent geopolitical tensions between India and Bangladesh, after which BCB formally requested a venue change, citing concerns over player safety.
The issue gained further traction after Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman was released by IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders on the recommendation of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
While the ICC has assured full security arrangements, BCB officials have maintained their stance, stating that playing on Indian soil could compromise their players’ safety.
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 will commence on 7 February across Sri Lanka and India.
Bangladesh were originally scheduled to play three group-stage matches in Kolkata, against West Indies on February 7, Italy on February 9, and England on February 14, before travelling to Mumbai to face Nepal on February 17.
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