Bangladesh cricket - (Source: AFP)
In a significant development, Bangladesh still have a chance to return to the T20 World Cup 2026, despite their recent exit from the prestigious tournament. The last few days were tough for ICC as they made the decision to kick the Tigers out of the World Cup due to unreasonable demands and now Pakistan is eyeing the same.
Earlier, the BCB had asked ICC to shift their matches in Sri Lanka due to geopolitical issues with India. However, the Jay Shah-led council found no security threat and dismissed Bangladesh’s request. As a result, the BCB decided not participate in the tournament, further complicating the situation.
Pakistan to take participation call on February 1
Notably, before the. Boycott, Bangladesh only found support from Pakistan, who were willing to take a stand for their Asian counterpart. There were reports that the PCB had actually contemplated boycotting the event if Bangladesh is thrown out.
At present, PCB head Mohsin Naqvi held a meeting with PM Shehbaz Sharif, where it was decided that a final decision on the matter will be taken on Friday or Monday. Now, if Pakistan actually decides not to play the entire tournament, then ICC also has a plan in place.
"Had a productive meeting with the Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif. Briefed him on the ICC matter, and he directed that we resolve it while keeping all options on the table. It was agreed that the final decision will be taken either on Friday or next Monday," tweeted Naqvi.
Pakistan’s boycott can open door for Bangladesh
A report from Republic Media stated that the ICC has devised a plan where they will actually ask Bangladesh whether they want to replace Pakistan because it will solve BCB’s issues. Notably, Pakistan, as per the mutual understanding between PCB and BCCI, will play all their games in Sri Lanka, and if they pull out, then Bangladesh can replace them and also be placed in the same group as India.
“If Pakistan decide to withdraw, Bangladesh would be given the opportunity to replace them in Group A and play all their matches in Sri Lanka as per BCB’s original request. This arrangement would pose limited logistical challenges,” an ICC official was quoted as saying.
Uganda to replace Pakistan if Bangladesh decline offer
According to direct qualification rules, the top 7 teams from the previous tournament, excluding hosts, earn a direct qualification for the next edition. At present, Pakistan are ranked seventh, and the team below them earns a qualification spot for the T20 World Cup 2026.
Interestingly, Afghanistan, Ireland, Zimbabwe, the Netherlands, Scotland, Namibia, the UAE, Nepal, the USA, Canada, and Oman have already qualified for the World Cup. Meanwhile, Uganda, who are 21st on the list, will earn a qualification and will be placed in group A alongside India, the USA, Namibia, and the Netherlands.
For the unversed, Uganda missed out on direct qualification as they finished 3rd in group B of the African qualifiers for the T20 World Cup 2026.
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