The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is seeking government clearance for their team’s participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup following Bangladesh’s replacement by Scotland for refusing to play in India. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi stated that the final decision rests with the government, with Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s advice awaited upon his return. Naqvi emphasized that if the government denies approval, ICC may invite another team to fill the spot.
Naqvi revealed that PCB has contingency plans in place, including alternatives A, B, and C, to address the situation if needed. Despite the ICC’s decision against Bangladesh’s request, the interim government of Bangladesh maintained its stance, leading to their exclusion and replacement by Scotland. Naqvi criticized the ICC for what he perceived as unfair treatment towards Bangladesh and questioned the organization’s alleged favoritism towards India.
The dispute arose after the Board of Control for Cricket in India expelled Mustafizur Rahman from the Kolkata Knight Riders IPL team, prompting Bangladesh’s security concerns. Naqvi highlighted Bangladesh’s significance in cricket and expressed dissatisfaction with the ICC’s handling of the situation. He criticized the ICC for allegedly showing bias towards India and failing to provide equal treatment to all member countries.
