NEW DELHI: Can we still see Bangladesh play in the T20 World Cup despite being replaced by Scotland? Yes, you read that right. This scenario could arise if Pakistan decides to skip the tournament, as PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi said the board will take a final call on their participation by next Monday after meeting Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Talks within the ICC are gaining momentum, according to Hindustan Times: if Pakistan withdraws from the T20 World Cup, Bangladesh could get a chance to participate, this time from Group A. Since Pakistan's matches are scheduled in Sri Lanka, their withdrawal could create an opportunity for Bangladesh, aligning with the country's request to move its matches out of India.

"If Pakistan decide to withdraw, Bangladesh would be given the opportunity to replace them in Group A and play all their matches in Sri Lanka as per BCB's original request. This arrangement would pose limited logistical challenges," an official told HT.

Bangladesh, who have been replaced by Scotland in the 20-team event, had sought shifting of its matches to Sri Lanka, citing security concerns in India but the ICC shot down the proposal, saying no such verifiable threat exists.

Pakistan are reportedly considering options short of a full withdrawal from the T20 World Cup. One proposal under discussion is staging a protest during their February 15 match against India in Colombo, which could include players wearing black armbands.

There are also reports that Pakistan might forfeit the India match, though such a move would breach the hybrid model framework previously agreed upon by the PCB with the ICC and BCCI. Additionally, it would result in a significant financial loss for the board.