Naqvi had even suggested that Pakistan could consider withdrawing from the tournament if the ICC failed to resolve Bangladesh’s concerns. However, recent developments suggest a clear shift in stance.
The BCB has found itself caught between its refusal to travel to India and the ICC’s insistence on maintaining the existing schedule. The controversy began on January 4, following the unexplained omission of Mustafizur Rahman by the BCCI, and has continued to intensify over the past three weeks. While the BCB has cited security concerns as the primary reason for its reluctance to tour India, the ICC has assessed the threat level as “nil to negligible.”
Pakistan confirms participation despite Bangladesh uncertainty
Earlier reports from Pakistani outlet Geo News claimed that the BCB had sought diplomatic backing from the PCB, with speculation growing that Pakistan and Bangladesh could unite against the BCCI on the issue. Mohsin Naqvi had publicly expressed solidarity with the BCB, fuelling rumours that Pakistan might also reconsider its participation in the T20 World Cup.
However, according to RevSportz, Pakistan have now made it clear that they will not boycott the tournament even if Bangladesh choose to withdraw. A PCB source told Hindustan Times, “Nope, this is not the PCB’s stand.”
The source further explained that Pakistan have no valid grounds to pull out, as all their matches are scheduled to be played in Sri Lanka. “The ICC would point out that Pakistan are already playing their matches in Sri Lanka. People just float such things to fire up the issue,” the source added.
ICC ultimatum and BCB’s firm stance
With Pakistan ruling out any withdrawal, the BCB now stands isolated in the standoff. The ICC has reportedly rejected multiple proposals from Bangladesh, including a suggested group swap with Ireland, whose matches are also scheduled in Sri Lanka, citing logistical complications.
As per ESPNcricinfo, the ICC asked the BCB to make a final decision by January 21, though Bangladesh have denied receiving any formal ultimatum and continue to maintain their position of not playing in India.
Scotland emerge as possible replacement
The lack of external support could prove costly for Bangladesh. The ICC is understood to be considering replacing Bangladesh with the highest-ranked unqualified team should they withdraw from the tournament.
In that scenario, Scotland—the top-ranked team outside qualification—could benefit, potentially taking Bangladesh’s spot in Group B. What once appeared to be a united front against the ICC and BCCI now seems fractured, with Pakistan stepping back and the BCB facing the possibility of exclusion from the global event.
