Pakistan could boycott T20 World Cup 2026 if Bangladesh pulls out

LAHORE: Pakistan could boycott the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 if Bangladesh decides not to participate in the event because of its refusal to travel to India, according to sources.

The sources said Pakistan may take this step if the International Cricket Council (ICC) does not agree to Bangladesh’s request to move their matches from India to Sri Lanka. Bangladesh has refused to play in India, citing safety concerns after tensions rose between the two countries. They want their matches to be held in Sri Lanka, which is co-hosting the tournament.

Political relations between Dhaka and New Delhi have recently worsened, affecting cricket as well. For example, Bangladesh player Mustafizur Rahman was dropped from this year’s Indian Premier League (IPL) despite signing with Kolkata. In response, Bangladesh banned IPL broadcasts and demanded to play their World Cup matches in Sri Lanka.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has reaffirmed its stance against touring India after the ICC rejected its request. Now, Bangladesh faces a tough choice: either drop the demand or risk being replaced by another team in the T20 World Cup, which starts on February 7.

BCB President Aminul Islam said he requested more time from the ICC to discuss the matter with the Bangladeshi government. Sources said the government will consult the players today before making a decision. Most senior players reportedly want to participate in the tournament.

The ICC has warned that changing the schedule without a credible security threat could set a precedent, affecting the organization of future events.

According to the schedule, Bangladesh is in Group C. Their first three group matches are in Kolkata: against West Indies on February 7, Italy on February 9, and England on February 14. They will finish the group stage against Nepal in Mumbai on February 17.