Pakistan Considers Withdrawing from T20 World Cup; May Avoid Clash with India

Colombo/New Delhi: The participation of Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2026 remains uncertain, as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) continues to weigh its options amid the exclusion of Bangladesh from the tournament. Sources indicate that Pakistan is keeping the possibility of withdrawing from the event open, while assessing the political, legal, and financial implications of such a move.

Early Matches Could Decide Pakistan’s Stance
According to reports from Telecom Asia Sport, Pakistan will monitor the results of its first two matches against Netherlands (7 February) and USA (10 February). If Pakistan wins both matches, there is a growing possibility that they could skip their high-profile clash against India on 15 February in Colombo. A source stated, “If Pakistan wins both early games, the likelihood of avoiding the India match increases.”

PCB to Communicate with ICC
The PCB is expected to make a final decision on participation by Monday, following the conclusion of the three-match T20I series against Australia in Lahore. The board also plans to formally communicate its dissatisfaction with the ICC over Bangladesh’s exclusion and may conduct a symbolic protest during the World Cup, which it has already informed the global governing body about.

Legal and Financial Concerns
While a partial or complete withdrawal is being considered, legal and financial complications could make such a step challenging. PCB’s legal advisors have warned that skipping matches, particularly against India, could have serious repercussions due to existing broadcasting agreements. Sources revealed that PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has been briefed on a $3 billion broadcast deal with India’s JioStar Sports extending to 2027, with revenues shared among ICC members. Non-participation or skipping the India match could result in substantial losses for broadcasters and, by extension, the PCB itself.

The unfolding situation adds a layer of suspense to the T20 World Cup 2026, with Pakistan’s decisions likely to impact both the tournament schedule and global cricket viewership.