The suspense surrounding Pakistan’s participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup continues to build, with a final decision expected imminently. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi recently met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and later indicated that a call on the ongoing “ICC matter” would be taken by Friday or Monday (February 2).

Bangladesh have already been replaced by Scotland after refusing to play their matches in India, and any potential withdrawal by Pakistan would leave the ICC scrambling for a replacement. Amid the uncertainty, Uganda have stepped forward with a tongue-in-cheek offer to take up any vacant spot in the tournament.

“Dear @ICC, if a T20 World Cup seat opens, Uganda is ready, packed and padded. Passports warm (not ice). No bakers leaving ovens or ships U-turning. Heat, noise, pressure? We’ll bring the bold kit,” Cricket Uganda posted on X, drawing widespread amusement online.

Uganda’s humorous message was a clear nod to Iceland Cricket, who had earlier jokingly offered to replace Pakistan before theatrically withdrawing. “It is with a heavy heart that we now announce our unavailability to replace Pakistan in the upcoming T20 World Cup,” Iceland Cricket wrote, adding, “Our loss is likely Uganda’s gain. We wish them well.”

However, despite the speculation, Pakistan’s participation now appears all but confirmed. According to sources quoted by PTI, the PCB has already scheduled its T20 World Cup squad to depart for Colombo early on February 2, effectively ruling out a boycott of the tournament or the high-profile clash against India on February 15.

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“The PCB has already made travel arrangements for the World Cup squad to leave early morning on February 2 for Colombo,” a source said.

The source also revealed that while the PCB had expressed solidarity with the Bangladesh Cricket Board over security concerns regarding matches in India, it could not escalate the matter further without jeopardising its own standing within the ICC.

A formal confirmation from the PCB is expected by Friday. Although sections of the media have speculated about Pakistan withdrawing from the tournament or refusing to play India, insiders have dismissed such reports as unfounded.

“When PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, it was made clear that any decision must ensure a stable and prosperous future for Pakistan cricket while maintaining strong relations with the ICC and member boards,” an insider said.