PCB Decision on T20 World Cup 2026: Pakistan cricket team’s participation in the T20 World Cup 2026 remains uncertain after PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi stated that the final decision rests with the government and will be taken soon. The tournament will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. However, media reports suggest the Pakistan team has already booked travel arrangements, indicating they are unlikely to withdraw from the marquee event.
Earlier this week, strong rumours suggested Pakistan could boycott the tournament. However, those speculations have eased after Pakistan continued its preparations and reportedly booked travel tickets to Colombo ahead of the World Cup, indicating plans to participate.
Pakistan had initially expressed solidarity with Bangladesh after the Tigers opted out of the tournament, with the PCB considering a similar stance. Despite that, a complete withdrawal by Pakistan now appears unlikely. Still, the PCB’s official statement, expected today, will be closely monitored by fans, administrators, and tournament organisers.
Pakistan is unlikely to boycott the T20 World Cup after PCB chairman Naqvi, during his meeting with Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif on Monday, highlighted the importance of maintaining strong ties with the Jay Shah-led ICC.
“When PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi met Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, he clearly conveyed that all options under consideration must ensure a stable and prosperous future for Pakistan cricket and preserve good relations with the ICC and member boards,” an insider told PTI.
The uncertainty stems from the Mustafizur Rahman issue, which triggered serious tensions between the BCCI and the Bangladesh Cricket Board. The dispute was eventually escalated to the ICC and resolved in a manner that left Bangladesh with the option to accept the terms or withdraw from the competition. Bangladesh chose to step away, altering the tournament landscape.
With the T20 World Cup less than a week away, any last-minute withdrawal by Pakistan would pose major logistical challenges, impacting schedules, broadcasting plans, and overall tournament operations. As the deadline nears, the PCB’s decision could have far-reaching consequences for the smooth conduct of the World Cup.
Meanwhile, Pakistan has launched a pre-booking link for its T20 World Cup 2026 jersey, with deliveries to fans in Pakistan scheduled by February 1, 2026.
