ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is set to reconsider its participation in the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in India amid growing concerns over the Bangladesh cricket team, government sources have confirmed.

The Bangladesh government has reportedly approached Pakistan for support regarding security issues. Insiders pointed out that if Bangladesh’s concerns were not adequately addressed, it could affect preparations for the tournament.

Pakistan insisted that no country should face pressure or threats regarding hosting responsibilities and assured its neighbors of full support in this regard.

On 11 January, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) expressed interest in hosting Bangladesh’s matches in the T20 World Cup, while the Bangladesh Cricket Board (PCB) decided against traveling to India due to security concerns.

PCB sources have confirmed that Pakistan has formally expressed its willingness to host Bangladesh’s matches in the event that Sri Lanka does not have venues available.

They added that all Pakistani stadiums are fully prepared to host World Cup matches, highlighting Pakistan’s successful hosting of major ICC events including Champions Trophy 2025 and ICC Women’s Qualifiers.

Meanwhile, in another development, Cricket Ireland (CI) clarified that the ICC will not move Ireland’s group-stage matches out of Sri Lanka, dismissing reports of a possible group swap with Bangladesh.

This comes after BCB reportedly requested a team transfer due to concerns about traveling to India.

“We have received firm assurances that we will not move from the original schedule. We are definitely playing in the group stage in Sri Lanka,” a Cricket Ireland official confirmed.

As per the current schedule, Bangladesh are in Group B along with West Indies, England, Nepal and Italy, playing their matches in Kolkata and Mumbai. Ireland are in Group C with all matches in Sri Lanka along with Sri Lanka, Australia, Zimbabwe and Oman.

The PCB is said to have discussed the possibility of a team swap with ICC officials in Dhaka on Saturday to minimize logistical challenges, despite little support from the ICC or Cricket Ireland.

The ICC delegation included General Manager Events and Corporate Communications Gaurav Saxena and General Manager Integrity Unit Andrew Epgrave, while PCB Chairman MD Aminul Islam presided.

As per the current schedule, Bangladesh will play the first three group matches in Kolkata – West Indies on February 7, Italy on February 9 and England on February 14 – before concluding against Nepal on February 17 in Mumbai.

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to be held in India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8.

comments

Submit