LAHORE: Pakistan’s participation in the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup will be decided by the federal government, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi said on Tuesday, amid growing concerns over what he described as unequal treatment of Bangladesh in tournament-related matters.
Speaking to reporters in Lahore, Naqvi said the PCB would follow the government’s direction on whether the national team travels for the global event, adding that cricketing decisions of this magnitude fall under state policy considerations.
“The final call on Pakistan’s participation will be taken by the government,” Naqvi said, noting that the board is awaiting guidance from the prime minister before outlining contingency plans.
He said preparations, including multiple participation scenarios, would be finalized once the government’s position becomes clear.
Naqvi also raised concerns about Bangladesh’s treatment within the international cricket framework, saying the country deserved equal consideration as a full member of the International Cricket Council.
“Bangladesh should be part of the T20 World Cup, and it deserves the same treatment as any other ICC member,” he said, adding that preferential treatment for certain teams reflected inconsistent standards.
“If concessions are extended in one case, they should apply across the board,” Naqvi said, warning that unilateral decisions could prompt Pakistan to take a firm stance of its own.
The PCB chairman declined to elaborate further, saying more details would be shared if and when required. He also referenced a previous decision taken earlier this month, noting that subsequent developments were still unfolding.
Pakistan’s stance comes amid broader regional discussions involving scheduling, travel arrangements and governance issues ahead of the T20 World Cup.
