ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi announced that a final decision regarding Pakistan’s participation in the partly India-hosted T20 World Cup will be made either on Friday or next Monday. This comes after a productive meeting with Prime Minister Shehzad Sharif, where Naqvi briefed him about ICC issues.
Naqvi shared on social media, “I had a fruitful discussion with Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif and conveyed the PCB’s stance regarding the T20 World Cup. The PM directed us to resolve any issues while keeping all options open.
The final decision will be made either on Friday or next Monday,” Naqvi stated.
Sources indicate that if Pakistan decides to participate in the tournament, the PCB is considering various protest measures as a response to Bangladesh’s exclusion from the event. These measures could include refusing to play Pakistan’s fixture against India or having players wear black armbands during matches. Any victories could be dedicated to Bangladesh cricket supporters.
The decision will be made according to the guidance of Prime Minister Sharif, who directed that all options should remain on the table. The PCB has also been considering potential protest measures in light of a reported Nipah virus outbreak in India. Health authorities have confirmed five infections, including two nurses and a doctor, with some critically ill.
These concerns have raised questions about tournament preparations, logistics, and security ahead of the scheduled start date of February 7.