In a major decision on Sunday evening, Pakistan announced to boycott its scheduled T20 World Cup match against India on February 15.
The Government of Pakistan announced the decision through its official X handle. The move came after the International Cricket Council (ICC) excluded Bangladesh from the tournament, following Dhaka’s security concerns about playing matches in India.
“The Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan grants approval to the Pakistan Cricket Team to participate in the ICC World T20 2026,” the post stated.
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) February 1, 2026
Earlier, it was reported that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had multiple protest options linked to Pakistan’s participation in the T20 World Cup as the board voices solidarity with Bangladesh amid growing concerns over treatment of the Bangladesh team.
The options were discussed internally as part of broader deliberations on how to register protest while remaining engaged in the tournament.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi also consulted board officials and former cricketers. The discussions also took place during a PSL workshop, where Naqvi reportedly spoke strongly in favor of the Bangladesh team.
Sources quoted Naqvi as saying Bangladesh had been “abused” and should not be left alone, reflecting the board’s stance on expressing solidarity.
