Indian cricketer Ajinkya Rahane has dismissed the possibility of Pakistan boycotting the T20 World Cup 2026, claiming they lack the resolve to take such a drastic step.
Rahane’s remarks come amid heightened tensions after the ICC replaced Bangladesh with Scotland for the tournament following Bangladesh’s refusal to travel to India. In response, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi had threatened to skip the marquee event, even offering to host Bangladesh’s matches in Pakistan. However, none of the PCB’s proposals were accepted, and the ICC reportedly warned Pakistan of potential sanctions should they opt to boycott the competition.
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Speaking on Cricbuzz, Rahane was blunt in his assessment of Pakistan’s stance. “I don’t think they will do it. They don’t have the guts,” he said, suggesting the threats were unlikely to translate into action.
Despite announcing a squad, the PCB has clarified that Pakistan’s participation is still not officially confirmed. Naqvi stressed that the final decision will depend on guidance from the Pakistan government, especially with the team scheduled to play their T20 World Cup matches at a neutral venue in Sri Lanka.
“We are waiting for the government’s advice, and whatever the government tells us to do, we will do it,” Naqvi told the players. “If they don’t want us to go for the World Cup, we will follow it.”
For now, uncertainty lingers over Pakistan’s involvement, though Rahane remains confident that the team will eventually take the field when the tournament begins.
