PCB Chief Says Government Will Decide Pakistan’s Participation
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has said that Pakistan’s participation in the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup will depend on the federal government’s decision. His comments came amid reports that Bangladesh has been replaced by Scotland in the tournament.
Naqvi spoke to the media in Lahore on Saturday. He stated that the PCB would follow the government’s directive regarding Pakistan’s stance on the World Cup. The final decision, he said, will be announced after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif returns to the country.
“We are more bound by the government’s decision than the ICC,” Naqvi said. “Once the decision comes, we will share our next plan.” His remarks underline the strong influence of the government on cricketing decisions in Pakistan.
Naqvi Criticises ICC Over Bangladesh’s Reported Exclusion
Naqvi strongly criticised the International Cricket Council (ICC) over reports that Bangladesh was excluded from the T20 World Cup. He called the reported decision “unfair” and accused the ICC of applying double standards.
“Bangladesh is a major stakeholder. An injustice has been done to them,” Naqvi said. He stressed that all member countries should be treated equally. He said that no single country should dictate terms in international cricket.
Naqvi added that he raised the issue during an ICC board meeting. He urged the ICC to treat all member nations with fairness. He also emphasised that Bangladesh should be allowed to participate in the World Cup under any circumstances.
The PCB chairman’s comments reflect growing concern in the cricketing world over the reported decision. Many analysts say that the move could set a dangerous precedent for future tournaments.
Reports Say ICC Replaces Bangladesh With Scotland
Indian media reports claimed that the ICC has replaced Bangladesh with Scotland. The reports said this decision came after Bangladesh refused to send its team to India for the T20 World Cup.
The reports further stated that the ICC rejected Bangladesh’s request for a hearing. The Bangladesh Cricket Board and other member boards were informed through a formal letter, the reports added.
According to the reports, Scotland will now compete in Group C of the T20 World Cup. The tournament is scheduled to begin on February 7 and will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
The ICC has not yet issued an official public statement regarding the matter. The board’s silence has increased uncertainty and speculation in the cricketing community.
Pakistan’s final decision on participation is expected to be announced soon. Cricket fans across the country are waiting to see whether Pakistan will join the World Cup or follow Bangladesh’s lead. The outcome could have major implications for the tournament and the sport’s future in the region.
