Pakistan claimed it sent a letter to the ICC

On the eve of the final decision regarding Bangladesh’s participation in the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has formally written to the International Cricket Council (ICC). In its letter, PCB expressed support for Bangladesh’s stance of refusing to play on Indian soil amidst the current political tensions between the two countries.

According to ESPNcricinfo, copies of the letter were also circulated to ICC board members. While questions have arisen over the timing of Pakistan’s intervention, cricket analysts suggest that it is unlikely to influence ICC’s current position. The ICC has repeatedly indicated its resolve to adhere to the original match schedule. There is no provision to relocate Bangladesh’s group-stage matches to Sri Lanka or any other venue.

The impasse began after the Bangladesh government, with backing from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), formally declined to send the national team to India for their scheduled group-stage matches. This matter has prompted multiple discussions between ICC and BCB officials, the latest of which was held in Dhaka last weekend. Despite several rounds of negotiations, neither party has altered its stance.

The deadline for a final decision was set for Wednesday, 21 January, with less than three weeks remaining until the tournament begins. PCB’s late involvement comes amid widespread speculation. Unverified reports had suggested that Pakistan might offer to host Bangladesh’s matches. Other rumours hinted that Pakistan’s own participation in the tournament could be influenced by the outcome of the Bangladesh issue. To date, PCB has not issued a public statement, nor has it responded to enquiries from ESPNcricinfo.

Observers trace the origins of this stalemate to a controversy surrounding the IPL 2026, when Kolkata Knight Riders were reportedly instructed to drop Bangladesh’s Mustafizur Rahman from their squad, reportedly linked to deteriorating Bangladesh-India political relations. This action triggered the Bangladesh government’s formal refusal to send its team to India.

Summary of Key Positions

With tensions escalating, the coming days are likely to be critical in determining whether Bangladesh will take the field in India or the situation will require further diplomatic and sporting negotiations.