Scotland to replace Bangladesh in T20 World Cup; PCB warns ICC
Scotland to replace Bangladesh in T20 World Cup; PCB warns ICC
Bangladesh’s boycott opens the door for Scotland at the T20 World Cup, with Pakistan's participation hinging on the government. PCB critiques ICC amid venue changes and a government-led call.
Bangladesh were replaced by Scotland in the upcoming T20 World Cup after Bangladesh refused to travel to India, citing security concerns. The ICC confirmed the substitution as part of the tournament’s group allocations for the 2026 edition.
Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi issued a clear warning that Pakistan’s participation will depend entirely on the government’s decision, with prime minister Shahbaz Sharif to decide on his return. Naqvi stressed that the final call rests with the government and warned that if they say no, the ICC may invite another team.
Naqvi also criticised the ICC’s decision-making process, suggesting one country holds too much control and asserting that Bangladesh has been unfairly treated. He noted that Pakistan backed Bangladesh during the ICC vote and said the PCB follows only government directives, leaving Pakistan’s participation uncertain until the political outcome is known.
Bangladesh’s refusal to tour India led to the ICC replacing them with Scotland. Bangladesh has long been considered a major stakeholder in world cricket, and Naqvi indicated he would reveal further factors behind the stance when appropriate. Meanwhile, Scotland is set to enter Group C, with fixtures against Italy, Nepal, West Indies and England, with Kolkata hosting the group games and a Nepal match scheduled for Mumbai.
Pakistan’s own World Cup matches are planned to be played in Sri Lanka under a hybrid model agreed earlier with the BCCI, adding another layer to the tournament’s already complex logistics. The development keeps the spotlight on governance and security concerns shaping a marquee event.
