Mohsin Naqvi Trapped at Home Over T20 World Cup Boycott Threat; Former Pakistani Cricketers Raise Alarm

Islamabad: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) continues to threaten a boycott of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 in protest against Bangladesh’s exclusion from the tournament. This threat, however, has put Pakistan’s own cricketing future at risk, with the International Cricket Council (ICC) warning of strict action against the board if such a step is taken.

Despite the warnings, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi stated after meeting Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif that a final decision would be made by Friday or Monday. Meanwhile, Naqvi has continued to issue strong statements, drawing criticism from several former Pakistani cricketers. Legends such as Inzamam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Yousuf, and Mohsin Khan have accused him of putting Pakistan’s cricketing future in jeopardy. Former captain Mohammad Hafeez, along with ex-PCB chairman Khalid Mahmood and secretary Arif Ali Abbasi, have questioned the rationale behind not sending the national team to the World Cup.

“What About Sri Lanka?”
Arif Ali Abbasi asked Naqvi why Pakistan is supporting Bangladesh while risking relations with other cricketing nations. He said, “I understand Pakistan wants to support Bangladesh, but what does PCB gain by not sending the team? This could harm relations with the ICC and other member countries. What about our ties with Sri Lanka? Not participating would hurt Sri Lanka as all their matches, including against India, are scheduled to be held there.”

“No Other Country Stood With Bangladesh”
Khalid Mahmood stated, “PCB’s steps are commendable if consistently aimed at Pakistan’s cricketing welfare. However, we must remember that no other country has supported Bangladesh’s request to drop India from the tournament. While the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s concerns are understandable, they did not receive backing in the ICC meeting.”

Former Cricketers Plead to Participate
Former Test batsman, chief selector, and head coach Mohsin Khan appealed to the PCB to send Pakistan to the World Cup. He remarked, “We may have a dispute with India, but all our matches are scheduled in Sri Lanka. Bangladesh has not challenged the ICC’s decision to exclude India. On what basis is PCB deciding not to send the team? This will be extremely damaging for our cricket.”

Inzamam-ul-Haq added, “Personally, I want to see Pakistan compete in the World Cup. We have talented players, and our cricket deserves to be showcased on such a big stage.”