Pakistan Makes Major Strides in World Cup with Bangladesh’s Support

In a significant development ahead of the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly put all preparations on hold. The tournament is scheduled to take place from 7 February to 8 March, jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka. According to multiple PCB sources, the board is awaiting further guidance for its team management division and has been instructed to develop contingency plans should Pakistan decide to withdraw from the competition.

The move comes in full support of Bangladesh, which recently declined to tour India citing security concerns. PCB officials have described Bangladesh’s apprehensions as “reasonable and realistic,” and affirmed that Pakistan stands in solidarity with its neighbouring cricketing nation. Sources within the board indicated that if Bangladesh’s participation remains unresolved, Pakistan may reconsider its own involvement in the tournament.

Insiders stress that no country should be pressured or coerced into participating, emphasising that the board aims to respect the choices of other nations while ensuring safety and fairness.

Earlier, on 11 January, the PCB had offered to host Bangladesh’s matches if Sri Lankan venues became unavailable. Officials assured that Pakistan’s stadiums are fully prepared to host World Cup fixtures, citing successful organisation of the 2025 Champions Trophy and the ICC Women’s Qualifier as proof of their capability.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh had proposed a group reshuffle with Ireland to avoid playing in India. However, Cricket Ireland has confirmed that group-stage fixtures will remain unchanged in Sri Lanka, reinforcing that Bangladesh must play all scheduled matches there. ICC sources clarified that Bangladesh faces no specific security threat at these venues, but if they decline to travel to India, Scotland may be considered as a replacement based on rankings.

A final decision on Bangladesh’s participation is expected by 21 January, following recent meetings between the ICC and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) in Dhaka. During these discussions, BCB reaffirmed their willingness to participate in the World Cup, though they prefer alternatives to playing in India, with Sri Lanka proposed as a backup host.

Bangladesh Group Stage Fixtures – 2026 T20 World Cup

The unfolding situation highlights the delicate balance between tournament logistics and the legitimate security concerns of participating nations, with Pakistan now positioning itself firmly alongside Bangladesh as discussions continue.