Pakistan Cricket Board Halts T20 World Cup Preparations Amid Bangladesh's Boycott

The Pakistan Cricket Board has halted its preparations for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, supporting Bangladesh's decision to boycott matches in India due to security concerns. As the tournament approaches, the PCB is considering contingency plans and has expressed willingness to host Bangladesh's matches if necessary. The ICC remains firm on the tournament schedule, with Bangladesh's participation still uncertain. This article explores the implications of these developments on the upcoming cricket event.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 20, 2026, 15:51 IST

Pakistan Cricket Board Pauses T20 World Cup Plans

In light of the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has suspended its team preparations for the prestigious tournament, which is set to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. This decision follows PCB's endorsement of Bangladesh's choice to boycott matches in India, as reported by a local news outlet. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has yet to confirm this development.

Background of Bangladesh's Boycott

The recent release of Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) IPL 2026 squad, directed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), has raised concerns amid ongoing minority issues in Bangladesh. Consequently, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has urged the ICC to move their matches to alternative venues outside India, citing player safety and security as primary concerns.

Pakistan's Support and Contingency Measures

Pakistan has deemed Bangladesh's security worries as 'reasonable and valid.' On January 19, they expressed complete support for the BCB's decision to refrain from traveling to India for T20 World Cup matches. Reports indicate that the Pakistan team management is preparing a contingency plan should they opt out of the tournament. Furthermore, PCB has shown readiness to host Bangladesh's T20 World Cup matches if Sri Lankan venues are unavailable.

ICC's Stance and Tournament Information

The ICC remains steadfast in maintaining its original schedule, placing Bangladesh in Group C alongside Italy, New Zealand, West Indies, and Nepal. Despite two meetings between the ICC and BCB, the matter remains unresolved with the T20 World Cup commencing in just over two weeks. According to ICC sources, the governing body has set a deadline for the BCB to finalize their decision regarding participation in India by January 21. Should the BCB decline, a replacement team, likely Scotland based on current rankings, may be appointed.

Bangladesh's T20 World Cup Fixtures

The T20 World Cup is scheduled to kick off on February 7. Bangladesh will begin their campaign against two-time champions West Indies at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Their subsequent matches include Italy on February 9, a clash with the 2022 T20 World Cup champions England, and concluding their group stage against Nepal on February 17.

Pakistan's T20 World Cup Fixtures

Pakistan is grouped with India, USA, Netherlands, and Namibia in Group A, starting their World Cup journey against the Netherlands on February 7. They are set to face India on February 15 in Colombo, Sri Lanka.