Pakistan is set to review its participation in the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup T20 in a new twist that includes concerns over Bangladesh’s security. According to Pakistani government sources, Pakistan is closely monitoring the development after Bangladesh wrote to the ICC to move its World Cup matches from India, citing risks to player safety.
This move came as a result BCCI terminates Mustafizur Rahman’s Indian Premier League contract with the Kolkata Knight Riders following protests by right-wing groups, an incident that reportedly raised Bangladesh’s concerns.
According to reports in Geo Super, the Bangladesh government has since approached Pakistan for diplomatic and sporting support in the matter. Reports suggest that if Bangladesh’s concerns are not satisfactorily addressed by the ICC and the tournament hosts, there could be wider implications for preparations and participation.
Insisting that no team should be subjected to pressure or threats during the tour, Pakistan has reiterated its position that hosting responsibilities must be met in a safe and neutral environment. The situation added a layer of uncertainty to the build-up to the marquee event.
PCB SUPPORTS BANGLADESH
Earlier on January 11, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) indicated its readiness to host Bangladesh matches if necessary during the tournament. PCB sources confirmed that Pakistan had formally conveyed to the ICC its willingness to step in if the Sri Lankan venues were not available, adding that all grounds in the country were fully prepared to host World Cup matches at short notice.
Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has made a more drastic proposal to the ICC in a bid to avoid traveling to India, urges the world body to consider changing the Bangladesh group in the competition. The development was disclosed in a press release issued on Saturday, January 17, following a meeting between BCB officials and an ICC delegation that visited Bangladesh to discuss the ongoing T20 World Cup impasse.
Bangladesh’s stance has hardened since BCCI’s action against Mustafizur. In a series of strong statements, Asif Nazrul, sports adviser to the Bangladesh government, warned of possible retaliation against the BCCI, further escalating tensions. The ICC is yet to express its position on Bangladesh’s demands, with time running out for a decisive call.
Led by Litton Das, Bangladesh are set to open their Group C campaign against the West Indies on February 7 at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata along with England, Italy and Nepal.
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Issued by:
sabyasachi chowdhury
Published on:
January 18, 2026