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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly considering boycotting its high-profile group-stage match against arch-rivals India at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, sources revealed on Monday.
The development comes in the wake of the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) decision to replace Bangladesh with Scotland after the former refused to travel to India for the tournament, citing security concerns.
The ICC’s stance has triggered unease within the PCB, which has publicly backed Bangladesh during the dispute.
Speculation about Pakistan’s participation intensified after PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed on Saturday that the final call will be made by the federal government.
According to insiders, the PCB is currently evaluating multiple protest options and intends to keep all avenues open, even if Pakistan ultimately take part in the tournament.
One of the scenarios under discussion is skipping the marquee clash against India. This move would cost Pakistan just two points in the group stage but could result in significant commercial and broadcast losses for the ICC.
Sources further revealed that Naqvi is scheduled to meet the national squad later today.
The PCB chairman is expected to brief the players on the evolving situation, discuss team strategy and outline broader plans in light of the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the tournament.
Naqvi has previously made it clear that the PCB will adhere strictly to the government’s instructions, even if that results in Pakistan withdrawing from the event.
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to begin on 7 February, with Pakistan originally set to open their campaign against the Netherlands.
Pakistan are drawn in Group A alongside India, the Netherlands, the USA and Namibia, with all of their group matches to be played in Sri Lanka under the hybrid model.
Pakistan are due to face the USA on 10 February, followed by the much-anticipated clash against India on 15 February, before concluding the group stage against Namibia on 18 February.
If Pakistan qualify for the semi-finals and final, both matches are slated to be played in Colombo. Otherwise, the knockout fixtures will take place in Kolkata and Ahmedabad.
READ: Shahid Afridi slams ICC’s decision to replace Bangladesh at T20 World Cup
