“Final Decision Will Be Soon”— Mohsin Naqvi Breaks Silence on Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2026 Participation

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief, Mohsin Naqvi, has broken the silence on his meeting with the Prime Minister of the country on their future for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka. Several news outlets have claimed that the 2009 champions may look to boycott the event after the removal of Bangladesh from the 20-team competition.

The final verdict was about to come in the evening of January 26, but Naqvi informed them that they would take the final call either on January 30 or by February 02, which will be less than a week before their opening encounter against the Netherlands, scheduled to take place in Colombo.  

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“Had a productive meeting with Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif. Briefed him on the ICC matter, and he directed that we resolve it while keeping all options on the table. It was agreed that the final decision will be taken either on Friday or next Monday.” Naqvi revealed in a post on his X account (formerly known as Twitter).

Pakistan to take final decision on T20 World Cup 2026 on this date

Pakistan, due to the mutual agreement with the BCCI, has got its T20 World Cup matches in Sri Lanka, including the mouth-watering clash against India on February 15 at the R. Premadasa Cricket Stadium in Colombo. But after the removal of the Bangladesh Cricket Board, they have decided to change their route on the thought process, which has been a surprising aspect in the last couple of days.

BCCI decided to release Bangladesh left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman from the IPL 2026, which saw BCB deciding not to travel to India for the T20 World Cup due to security concerns. The ICC made it clear that Bangladesh would need to play all their group stage games in India; they would replace them, which they eventually did with Scotland.

The current reports have claimed that Pakistan may also look to forfeit the encounter against India, which will see the home side getting two points, but the PCB needs to face the consequences of that, which could come as a sanction for the upcoming bilateral series.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi say about Pakistan’s participation in the T20 World Cup 2026?

Mohsin Naqvi confirmed that a final decision on Pakistan’s participation in the T20 World Cup 2026 will be taken between January 30 and February 2, following his meeting with Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.

Why is Pakistan reconsidering its participation in the T20 World Cup 2026?

Reports suggest Pakistan may reconsider after Bangladesh’s removal from the tournament, which raised concerns and prompted a review of their own plans.

Where are Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2026 matches scheduled to be played?

Pakistan’s matches, including the high-profile clash against India on February 15, are scheduled to be played in Sri Lanka, as per the mutual agreement with the BCCI.

What impact could a boycott or forfeiture have on Pakistan cricket?

If Pakistan decides to forfeit matches, it could face ICC sanctions or affect future bilateral series, making the final decision crucial for the team’s standing.

What was discussed in Mohsin Naqvi’s meeting with the Prime Minister?

Naqvi briefed PM Nawaz Sharif on the ICC situation, and it was agreed that Pakistan would keep all options open and finalize the decision within a few days.