Pakistan has officially withdrawn from the 2027 Over-50 Cricket World Cup in India after failing to secure government permission.
The decision means Pakistan will not defend the title it won during the 2025 tournament in Sri Lanka.
The upcoming competition will take place in Hyderabad, India, from January 23 to February 7, 2027.
Why Did Pakistan Withdraw From the World Cup?
Pakistan Veterans Cricket Association Chairman Fawad Ejaz Khan confirmed the decision on Wednesday.
He explained that the association had requested permission from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Interior.
However, Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi informed officials that the government would not approve the team’s participation.
The association subsequently decided against sending players to India.
India Offered Security and Visa Assurances
According to Fawad Ejaz Khan, Indian veterans cricket officials had assured Pakistan of proper visa arrangements.
They also promised high-level security for Pakistani players during the tournament.
Despite these assurances, Pakistani authorities did not grant travel permission.
The association chairman expressed disappointment over the decision but said officials respected the government’s position.
Defending Champions Miss Chance to Retain Title
Pakistan entered the upcoming competition as defending champions after winning the 2025 edition in Sri Lanka.
The withdrawal removes the team’s opportunity to secure another international veterans cricket title.
Fawad also extended his best wishes to the tournament organizers and participating teams.
The decision affects the veterans’ Over-50 competition, not Pakistan’s national team’s participation in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
