PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi Confirms No Benefits From T20 World Cup Stand for Pakistan

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi faced pointed questions on Monday after Pakistan officially confirmed a U-turn on its earlier decision to boycott the T20 World Cup match against India. The reversal came ahead of the high-profile group-stage clash scheduled for February 15, ending weeks of uncertainty that had drawn criticism and scrutiny from cricket stakeholders.

Pakistan had initially refused to play India in solidarity with Bangladesh, who were removed from the tournament by the International Cricket Council (ICC). The Pakistan government had backed the stance, framing it as a political and sporting protest. However, prolonged discussions involving the ICC, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and several other cricket boards—including those from the UAE and Sri Lanka—eventually led to Pakistan agreeing to honour the fixture.

Just before the official confirmation, Naqvi attended a Pakistan Super League (PSL) press conference, where he was confronted by reporters over the apparent climbdown. When asked whether Pakistan had secured any concessions from the ICC during negotiations, Naqvi candidly admitted that no direct gains were made. “Hamne apne liye kuch nahi kiya,” he said, repeatedly stressing that Pakistan’s stand was taken solely in support of Bangladesh.

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In a brief exchange captured on video, Naqvi hinted that a decision was imminent and attempted to project confidence despite the mounting pressure. He also referenced Bangladesh’s request for Pakistan to play the match, suggesting that Bangladesh’s own issues with the ICC had been resolved, prompting the appeal for Pakistan to return to the tournament framework.

Following the resolution, the ICC issued a statement emphasising unity and adherence to commitments. The governing body said all member nations had agreed to respect participation terms and ensure the successful conduct of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, effectively closing the chapter on the standoff.

It later emerged that the ICC had rejected three demands put forward by the PCB, including a request linked to the resumption of bilateral cricket with India. With no concessions secured, Pakistan’s return to the India fixture has been widely viewed as a face-saving compromise rather than a negotiated victory, leaving the PCB leadership under continued public and media scrutiny.

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