Web Desk: After the ICC removed Bangladesh from the T20 World Cup for refusing to play in India, a question mark has also emerged over the participation of the Pakistan cricket team in the event.
Although Pakistan’s squad for the ICC T20 World Cup has been announced, uncertainty remains over whether Pakistan will actually play in the World Cup. In this regard, an important meeting between PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is expected today for consultation.
Sources say the meeting will discuss matters related to participating or not participating in the T20 World Cup. According to sources, it has also been decided to consult Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on the issue of participation in the T20 World Cup.
In this regard, Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar said that consultations are underway, the government will play its role, and whatever decision is made will be communicated.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi stated that the stance of the Bangladesh Cricket Board is based on principles and that they reject the ICC’s double standards. He said politicized cricket is not in anyone’s interest and everyone should follow the principles of cricket. He added that Pakistan’s players are talented and know how to compete in every aspect, and success on any field is achieved through teamwork.
Earlier, Chairman Mohsin Naqvi had said that the decision regarding participation in the T20 World Cup rests with the Government of Pakistan rather than the ICC, and the government will decide whether Pakistan participates.
It may be recalled that a few days ago, the Bangladesh Cricket Board refused to travel to India to play T20 World Cup matches citing security concerns. The Bangladesh Board had demanded that its matches be shifted to Sri Lanka due to security issues.
However, the ICC rejected Bangladesh’s stance and included Scotland in the mega event in place of Bangladesh.
Recently, reports had also emerged suggesting that if Bangladesh refused to participate in the World Cup, there was a possibility of Pakistan also boycotting the event.
It is worth noting that the T20 World Cup is scheduled to begin on February 7, and Pakistan’s matches in the event are scheduled to be played in Sri Lanka.
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