PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi on Saturday issued a sharp warning to the ICC following Bangladesh’s reported exit from the upcoming T20 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
Naqvi said Bangladesh should not be sidelined at the very start of the tournament process, calling the neighbouring nation a “major stakeholder” in international cricket.
His remarks came amid reports that Bangladesh could be replaced by Scotland for the event due to security and logistical concerns. Naqvi argued that such a move would damage the credibility of a World Cup that projects itself as global and inclusive.
While refraining from confirming whether Pakistan would boycott the tournament in solidarity, the PCB chief made it clear that the final decision would lie with the Pakistan government, not the cricket board.
“If the government of Pakistan decides not to play, then they can bring in a 22nd team,” Naqvi said, a comment widely interpreted as criticism of the ICC’s handling of the situation.
The statement has added a fresh layer of tension around the tournament’s build-up.
