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The Emirates Cricket Board has contacted the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), urging a review of its decision to boycott the February 15 match against India in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026.
According to sources, the board recommended Pakistan make a decision in the best interests of cricket, signalling concern over the potential disruption of the international tournament and related arrangements.
The development follows Bangladesh’s earlier protest against participating in the ongoing mega event in India and Sri Lanka, citing security concerns for their team and requesting a change of venues, which the ICC rejected.
After the ICC dismissed Bangladesh’s request, the country withdrew from the tournament, prompting the ICC to replace Bangladesh with Scotland instead of negotiating a compromise to address security concerns.
Pakistan responded by expressing solidarity with Bangladesh and announcing a boycott of its scheduled match against India, calling the ICC’s handling of the situation a demonstration of double standards in cricket.
The situation has sparked intense discussions within cricketing circles, with multiple boards now urging Pakistan to reconsider its stance and ensure the integrity and smooth conduct of the T20 World Cup.
Earlier this week, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) urged Pakistan to rethink its decision to boycott the group stage match against the neighbouring country, warning it could damage the event and host preparations.
It is worth noting that PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi today met Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) President Aminul Islam at Gaddafi Stadium to discuss the ongoing crisis in international cricket.
The meeting follows extensive back channel talks by ICC directors Imran Khwaja and Mubashir Usmani, who have been engaged since Naqvi publicly questioned Pakistan’s national team participation in the match.
Meanwhile, a separate meeting between ICC and PCB officials is underway at Gaddafi Stadium to discuss Pakistan’s boycotted T20 World Cup match against India on February 15.
