Pakistan is considering withdrawing from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 following the controversial exclusion of Bangladesh from the tournament, escalating tensions ahead of one of international cricket’s biggest events. The controversy arose after Bangladesh refused to play its scheduled World Cup matches in India, citing security concerns. Dhaka requested that its fixtures be shifted to a neutral venue, preferably Sri Lanka. The International Cricket Council, however, rejected the demand, stating that there was no credible security threat and that altering the schedule at a late stage was impractical. Following Bangladesh’s refusal to participate under the existing arrangement, the ICC moved to replace the team in the tournament lineup.

Pakistan has strongly objected to the decision, backing Bangladesh and accusing the ICC of inconsistency and selective application of rules. Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi described the move as unfair and claimed it reflected double standards in global cricket governance. The issue has been discussed at the highest political level in Pakistan, with Naqvi briefing the country’s prime minister on the developments. The prospect of a Pakistani boycott has divided opinion within the cricketing community. Several former players and analysts have warned that pulling out of a global tournament could damage Pakistan’s long-term interests, strain relations with the ICC, and isolate the country within international cricket. Others, however, have supported the idea of standing in solidarity with Bangladesh, arguing that sporting bodies must respect national security concerns.

The episode has also triggered widespread debate on social media, with critics questioning Pakistan’s consistency and accusing the PCB of politicising cricket. Some commentators have suggested that protest measures short of a full boycott may still be considered. A Pakistan withdrawal would have serious implications for the tournament, potentially affecting broadcasting revenues, sponsorships, and overall viewership. It would also deepen existing regional frictions, once again highlighting how geopolitical disputes in South Asia continue to spill over into international sport. With the T20 World Cup fast approaching, uncertainty over Pakistan’s participation underscores the growing challenge faced by global sporting bodies in balancing competition, politics, and diplomacy.