Tensions are escalating in international cricket as PCB chairman and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi declared that Pakistan’s involvement in the 2026 T20 World Cup rests entirely with the government. The statement follows the ICC’s decision to oust Bangladesh from the tournament for refusing to play in India, promptly replacing them with Scotland.

Expressing solidarity with Bangladesh, the PCB has escalated the matter to Pakistan’s leadership. Speaking in Lahore, Naqvi outlined the protocol: ‘Our participation hinges on government approval. PM Shehbaz Sharif is overseas; we’ll consult him post-return. Whatever the government says is final—if they say no, ICC can pick another team in our place.’

Naqvi revealed a strategic arsenal of backup options, drawing parallels to past events like the Champions Trophy. ‘Plans A, B, and C are in place. We’re experts at handling these scenarios,’ he assured, projecting confidence despite the uncertainty.

His sharpest barbs were reserved for the ICC, which he accused of pandering to India’s preferences. ‘Why change venues for Pakistan-India games but not for Bangladesh? One nation seems to dictate terms,’ Naqvi charged, highlighting what he sees as selective fairness. He lamented the ‘unjust’ sidelining of Bangladesh, a key cricket power, and teased forthcoming revelations from a recent meeting.

Scotland’s swift elevation to Group C—alongside England, West Indies, Italy, and Nepal—marks them as the top unqualified team gaining entry. This reshuffle underscores growing fractures in global cricket governance, with Pakistan’s looming decision potentially reshaping the tournament landscape. As Naqvi awaits the PM’s verdict, the cricketing world braces for ripple effects on bilateral ties and future events.