Pakistan has outrightly denied the rumors that it might boycott the 2026 T20 World Cup, which the media have been reporting. The statement comes at a time when there is still uncertainty over whether Bangladesh will take part in the matches scheduled to be held in India.
To the Controversy Background
Bangladesh has already indicated its unwillingness to play their matches in India during the T20 World Cup 2026. National honor, along with security concerns, are some of the reasons cited by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) for not entering India for those matches that are to be held in Kolkata and Mumbai.
This triggered several clutch of media reports suggesting that Pakistan was mulling over a boycott of the tournament as a gesture of support to Bangladesh.
Government Statement From Pakistan
The media reports are claimed to be nothing but rumors by Pakistan, who further on staff said that such talk was baseless. As per sources from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Pakistan has no plans to pull out from the tournament. It has been stated by PCB that all of Pakistan's matches were finalized and are to be played in Sri Lanka during early 2025.
Sources from PCB further pointed out that boycotts do not hold any logic, while at the same time questioning the motives behind such reports, which are being put out to stir up unnecessary to do. And, even if the Indian authorities decide not to allow Bangladesh to play in India due to security concerns, the Pakistani team will be there in the World Cup as per the schedule.
Bangladesh ICC Replacement Reports Reaction
There were rumors as well that the International Cricket Council (ICC) might substitute Bangladesh with Scotland if the latter country continues to be obstinate regarding the tour of India. Bangladesh government sports advisor, Asif Nazrul, countered this claim stating that he had not been officially contacted by ICC in any manner regarding this issue.
Nazrul stated that the ICC cannot force Bangladesh to play in India through pressure. He confirmed that no formal notice about replacement has been issued. Scotland also responded to the reports, stating that the ICC has not contacted them regarding participation in the tournament.
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