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A decision on Pakistan participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which is set to be held in India and Sri Lanka, is expected within days, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi said on Monday.
Naqvi took to his X handle, revealing the details regarding the decision following a ‘producitve meeting’ with the PM Shehbaz Sharif.
“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,” he wrote.
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.
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: Pakistan considering boycott of T20 World Cup clash against India: sources
