Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has strongly opposed reports that Bangladesh were replaced by Scotland at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, calling the move an injustice and urging the ICC to avoid double standards.
Naqvi said Pakistan’s stance is that Bangladesh should be allowed to participate in the tournament under all circumstances, describing the country as a major stakeholder in international cricket.
“This is injustice against Bangladesh and I said the same in the ICC board meeting. You can’t have double standards. Bangladesh should play in the World Cup in all cases,” Naqvi said.
He also warned that Pakistan could consider withdrawing from the tournament if directed by the government.
“We are waiting for our prime minister to return and if the Pakistan government decides we will also pull out of the T20 World Cup. Let ICC then look for a 22nd team,” he said.
Naqvi added that the PCB is bound to follow government policy in such matters, underscoring the political sensitivities surrounding participation in the tournament.
The comments come amid reports that Bangladesh were replaced by Scotland in Group C of the 2026 T20 World Cup following Bangladesh’s refusal to play matches in India. The ICC has not issued an official public statement on the matter so far. (Newswire)