The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decisively put to rest speculation about a boycott of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, confirming that the national team will participate in the tournament and that travel plans to Colombo are underway. The announcement comes after days of uncertainty and intense debate inside Pakistan cricket and government circles following Bangladesh’s withdrawal from the event, which had sparked broader talk of protest and potential withdrawal by Pakistan.
In the face of mounting pressure, the PCB leadership — backed by consultations with the government of Pakistan and extensive deliberations with the International Cricket Council (ICC) — moved to clarify its position, ending weeks of speculation that had unsettled fans and the global cricketing community. Sources close to the board indicate that flights for the squad have already been booked to Colombo, where Pakistan is scheduled to play its group matches, underscoring a firm commitment to compete as the tournament gets under way from February 7.
The uncertainty stemmed from the PCB’s earlier public statements about reviewing participation following Bangladesh’s removal from the World Cup after it refused to play matches in India over security concerns. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi had at one point said that the team’s participation would be decided in consultation with the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif, with decisions initially delayed beyond a previously stated deadline.
That hesitancy sparked extensive cricket media and fan debate, with some commentators — including former Indian cricketer Ajinkya Rahane — dismissing Pakistan’s talk of withdrawal as unlikely, particularly given the logistical and financial implications of skipping the tournament or key fixtures such as the marquee India vs Pakistan clash scheduled for 15 February in Colombo.
Reports today confirm that the final stance taken by Pakistan reflects both a desire to preserve good relations with the ICC and a recognition of the significant impact that withdrawal would have on the sport’s commercial and diplomatic dynamics. ICC officials had also indicated confidence that Pakistan would honour its participation agreement, noting that all members were expected to fulfil their commitments barring extraordinary circumstances.
Inside Pakistan, players reportedly expressed support for the PCB and government’s deliberations, with assurances that the squad would back whatever final decision was made. This alignment between players, the board and government authorities appears to have played a key role in steering Pakistan back toward participation rather than prolonged protest or partial withdrawal scenarios that had been floated at various stages.
While some voices in Pakistan had advocated symbolic forms of protest — including suggestions that the team might consider not playing specific matches — the board’s final decision demonstrates a pragmatic approach that prioritises cricketing continuity and compliance with the ICC’s regulations on member participation.
With travel to Sri Lanka imminent and the squad already finalised, Pakistan’s focus will now shift fully back to on-field preparation. The team is grouped with India, the USA, Namibia and the Netherlands, and attention will turn to performance as the World Cup begins. Playing competitive cricket on the global stage — particularly the high-profile India clash — is expected to be a central part of Pakistan’s campaign narrative.
12BET Shortlisted for Sportsbook Operator of the Year at SBC Awards 2025