The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is weighing multiple protest options linked to Pakistan’s participation in the T20 World Cup, sources said, as the board voices solidarity with Bangladesh amid growing concerns over treatment of the Bangladesh team.
Sources say the Pakistan Cricket Board is considering several symbolic and competitive responses related to Pakistan’s T20 World Cup matches. The options were discussed internally as part of broader deliberations on how to register protest while remaining engaged in the tournament.
Naqvi consults officials, former players
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has consulted board officials and former cricketers, according to sources. The discussions also took place during a PSL workshop, where Naqvi reportedly spoke strongly in favor of the Bangladesh team.
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Sources quoted Naqvi as saying Bangladesh had been “abused” and should not be left alone, reflecting the board’s stance on expressing solidarity.
Three options under consideration
First option: Pakistani players could wear black armbands during T20 World Cup matches to express solidarity with Bangladesh cricket fans.
Second option: The Pakistan team could boycott the February 15 match against India, citing Indian behaviour, sources said.
Third option: Pakistan could dedicate every match victory in the T20 World Cup to Bangladesh cricket supporters.
PM to take final decision
Sources said the final decision on Pakistan’s participation and the choice among protest options will be taken by Shehbaz Sharif. A meeting between the prime minister and Mohsin Naqvi is expected today to discuss the matter.
Officials emphasized that any move would balance Pakistan’s competitive interests with a clear message of solidarity.
Sources has said on Sunday that the PCB chairman will brief the prime minister on matters relating to the T20 World Cup, after which a decision on participation or non-participation will be taken in line with the prime minister’s directions.
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Speaking to national cricketers on Sunday, Naqvi said the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s (BCB) stance was based on principles. He said Pakistan supported Bangladesh while keeping the fundamental values of cricket in view. He added that Pakistan’s players were talented and that success in any arena depended on teamwork.
Naqvi said politicised cricket served no one’s interests. He said the PCB would fully abide by the decision taken by the Government of Pakistan regarding the World Cup.
