NEW DELHI: After Bangladesh’s exit from the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, the focus has now shifted to Pakistan, with anticipation building over whether they could follow the same route.
The uncertainty has only grown after comments from Pakistan Cricket Board director, High Performance Director and selector Akib Javed.
Despite the doubts, the PCB on Sunday went ahead and unveiled its 15-member squad for the upcoming summit tournament. The announcement has raised more questions than answers, especially with clarity still missing on whether Pakistan will eventually take part in the event.
Speaking at a press conference, Javed made it clear that the decision on participation does not lie with the selectors and rests entirely with the government.
“We are selectors, and our job is to pick the team. We’ve announced the team very close to the deadline. The government will decide on our participation so I can say nothing on that front. That’s what the chairman has said, too, so we’ll wait for their decision,” Javed said.
Meanwhile, PCB President Mohsin Naqvi also said on Saturday that the final call on Pakistan’s participation will be taken by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. With the PM currently out of the country, the board is awaiting his return, after which a decision will be made based on his call.
Earlier, Bangladesh had withdrawn from the T20 World Cup citing security concerns after weeks of discussions with the Indian Cricket Council. Following their exit, it was officially confirmed that Scotland will take part in the tournament in place of Bangladesh.
