The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is awaiting a government decision regarding the national team’s participation in the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, following reports that Bangladesh has been replaced by Scotland in the tournament.
PCB Chairman Addresses ICC’s Decision
Speaking to the media in Lahore, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi emphasized that the final call on Pakistan’s involvement will rest with the government. He highlighted Bangladesh’s significant role in international cricket and expressed concerns over what he described as unfair treatment by the International Cricket Council (ICC).
Concerns Over Double Standards
Naqvi revealed that he raised the issue during an ICC board meeting, cautioning against perceived double standards in global cricket governance. He noted that while the PCB is awaiting the ICC’s formal written confirmation of the decision, several contingency plans are already under consideration.
Government’s Role in Decision-Making
The PCB chairman clarified that Pakistan’s stance will align strictly with the government’s instructions, and no independent decision will be made by the board. The matter is expected to be discussed further once Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif returns, after which a final decision regarding Pakistan’s participation will be announced. Naqvi also mentioned that if Pakistan opts out, the ICC could select another team to fill the spot.
Background on ICC’s Replacement of Bangladesh
Reports indicate that the ICC decided to include Scotland in the T20 World Cup after Bangladesh reportedly failed to comply with board directives, specifically declining to travel to India for the event. The ICC had set a 24-hour deadline to resolve the issue, which went unmet, leading to the replacement.
The ICC chief executive communicated in writing to board members that Bangladesh’s demands did not align with ICC policies and that the board had not implemented agreed decisions. This communication was also sent to Bangladesh Cricket Board president Aminul Islam, who is an ICC board member.
Scotland’s Inclusion
Following the decision, Cricket Scotland received an official invitation from the ICC. Scotland’s selection is reportedly based on their recent performances in ICC events and their current world ranking of 14th. Notably, Scotland finished third in Group B of the 2024 T20 World Cup and secured a victory over Bangladesh in the 2021 edition.
