Pakistan cricketing legends and former officials have voiced strong opposition to Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chief Mohsin Naqvi’s suggestion of withdrawing from the T20 World Cup 2026, amid the ongoing row over tournament venues with the International Cricket Council (ICC).
Naqvi recently hinted that Pakistan’s participation in the World Cup was “on hold,” following a meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, citing solidarity with Bangladesh in the dispute over hosting rights. However, former players and administrators argued that such a decision could jeopardize Pakistan’s cricketing relations and future in ICC events.
Former Test Captain Muhammad Hafeez emphasized that the team must participate, while ex-PCB Chairman Khalid Mahmood and Secretary Arif Ali Abbasi questioned the rationale behind a potential withdrawal. Abbasi remarked, “I can understand Pakistan supporting Bangladesh, but what purpose will PCB achieve by not sending its team apart from spoiling relations with the ICC and member boards?”
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Mahmood added that while Pakistan’s support for Bangladesh was commendable, decisions must remain sensible and centred on Pakistan cricket. Former Test batsman and selector Mohsin Khan highlighted that all of Pakistan’s matches in the tournament are scheduled in Sri Lanka, noting that Bangladesh would not appeal the ICC decision. “So then on what grounds will the PCB not send its team to the World Cup? It will be bad for our cricket,” he cautioned.
Former captains Inzamam ul Haq and Muhammad Yousuf echoed the call for prudence, stressing the need to balance political gestures with the country’s cricketing interests. Ex-Test batsman and coach Haroon Rasheed said, “We supported Bangladesh, which is a good thing. We took a principled stance, but now is also the time to look at our own cricket interests.”
The voices of these veterans reflect growing concern within Pakistan’s cricket community that withdrawing from the T20 World Cup could damage international relations, hurt players’ exposure, and impact the sport’s future in the country.
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