Ex-Pakistan Cricketers Urge PCB to Reconsider T20 World Cup 2026 Withdrawal

Pakistan is advised to maintain its relationship with the international cricket community and not allow its support for Bangladesh to negatively impact national cricket, according to former players and Board officials. This comes as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) delays its decision regarding participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Mohsin Naqvi, Chairman of the PCB, has set a deadline for confirming Pakistan’s decision by Friday or Monday, following the controversy surrounding Bangladesh’s exclusion from the tournament.

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Former Pakistan Test captain Mohammad Hafeez emphasized that the PCB should ensure the team’s participation in the World Cup. Likewise, former PCB chairman Khalid Mahmood and secretary Arif Ali Abbasi found no justification in boycotting the global event.

“Supporting Bangladesh is understandable, but boycotting the event only jeopardizes our relations with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and member boards,” stated Abbasi.

Abbasi, who served on the board alongside figures like Jagmohan Dalmiya and IS Bindra, reiterated the need for Pakistani participation in the tournament.

“What about our ties with Sri Lanka? Pakistan’s absence would impact them financially, as all our matches, including those against India, are set in Sri Lanka,” he added.

Mahmood acknowledged the PCB’s noble intent but urged a balanced decision focused on advancing Pakistan cricket.

“While we supported Bangladesh’s stance on relocating matches from India, it’s crucial to note no other board backed this move during the ICC meeting,” Mahmood mentioned.

Mohsin Khan, a former Test batter and ex-chief selector and coach, also encouraged the PCB to proceed with the World Cup participation.

“Despite our issues with India, our matches are in Sri Lanka,” he stated.

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Khan also noted that the Bangladesh Board chose not to contest the ICC’s decision to exclude them from the World Cup.

“Given this, it seems counterproductive for the PCB to withhold our team from the tournament, which could harm our cricket,” he warned.

Former captains Inzamam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Yousuf stressed the importance of considering all angles before making a final decision.

“Personally, I wish to see Pakistan compete in the World Cup. We have talented players, and it’s vital for our cricket to succeed at major events,” said Inzamam.

Haroon Rasheed, a former Test player and ex-head coach and chief selector, expressed confidence that Pakistan would participate, citing insufficient reason to withdraw.

“Supporting Bangladesh was the right move. However, we must prioritize our cricketing interests now,” Rasheed advised.

Published on Jan 27, 2026